Horseshoe Bend Orchard Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Arthur L. Heath Dam Heath Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Located in Wheeler, Georgia, Horseshoe Bend Orchard Lake Dam stands as a private irrigation facility completed in 1953.
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Summary
This Earth-type dam, with a height of 21 feet and a length of 945 feet, serves the primary purpose of irrigation, providing storage of up to 316 acre-feet of water in the reservoir. With a normal storage capacity of 164 acre-feet and a surface area of 26 acres, the dam plays a critical role in supporting agricultural activities in the region.
Despite being classified as a low hazard potential structure, Horseshoe Bend Orchard Lake Dam undergoes regular inspections to ensure its integrity and safety. The last inspection in July 2016 reported a condition assessment of "Not Rated," with a moderate risk level assigned. While the dam's emergency action plan status and risk management measures are unspecified, its presence significantly contributes to water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the area. With its strategic location and historical significance, the dam remains a vital component of the local water infrastructure.
Managed by a private entity and situated within the Savannah District, Horseshoe Bend Orchard Lake Dam represents a key feature in Georgia's water resource landscape. As climate change impacts continue to affect water availability and quality, the importance of such structures in ensuring sustainable water supply for irrigation and other uses cannot be overstated. The dam's role in regulating water flow, enhancing agricultural productivity, and mitigating flood risks underscores its significance in supporting both local communities and the broader ecosystem.
Year Completed |
1953 |
Dam Length |
945 |
Dam Height |
21 |
River Or Stream |
UNKNOWN |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
26 |
Drainage Area |
615 |
Nid Storage |
316 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
21 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Oconee River Near Mount Vernon
|
1280cfs |
Oconee River At Dublin
|
1030cfs |
Turnpike Creek Near Mcrae
|
11cfs |
Ocmulgee River At Lumber City
|
2740cfs |
Altamaha River Near Baxley
|
4410cfs |
Ohoopee River Near Reidsville
|
195cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Horseshoe Bend Orchard Lake Dam