Dopson Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Dopson Pond Dam, also known as Dobbs Lake, is a private-owned structure located in Telfair, Georgia.


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Summary

Built by designer Clyde Dopson in 1965, this earth dam stands at a height of 26 feet and has a hydraulic height of 22 feet. With a primary purpose of recreation, the dam offers a storage capacity of 213 acre-feet and a surface area of 14 acres, making it a popular spot for water enthusiasts in the Jacksonville environs.

Despite being unregulated by the state, Dopson Pond Dam has a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, with a drainage area of 175 square miles. While the condition assessment is currently not rated, the last inspection in May 2017 revealed no immediate concerns. With its picturesque setting and recreational opportunities, Dopson Pond Dam serves as a vital water resource for the surrounding community.

As a notable feature in the Jacksonville District of Georgia, Dopson Pond Dam not only provides recreational benefits but also plays a role in water management and conservation efforts. With its unique design and historical significance, this earth dam continues to attract water resource and climate enthusiasts who appreciate its contribution to the local ecosystem and landscape.

Year Completed

1965

Dam Length

1050

Dam Height

26

River Or Stream

UNKNOWN

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

14

Hydraulic Height

22

Drainage Area

175

Nid Storage

213

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

26
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.

Hazard Potential Classification

High
Dams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.