Deerfield Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Deerfield Lake Dam in Hancock, Georgia, stands as a vital piece of infrastructure in the region, serving not only as a water resource but also as a climate management system.


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Summary

This Earth-type dam, with a height of 16 feet and a length of 750 feet, provides a maximum storage capacity of 168 acre-feet, crucial for maintaining water levels in the area. Despite being uncontrolled, the spillway and outlet gates play a key role in managing water flow and mitigating potential hazards.

Although the dam's hazard potential is rated as low, its risk assessment stands at a moderate level, highlighting the importance of regular inspections and maintenance. The last recorded inspection in February 2005 emphasized the need for a five-year inspection frequency to ensure the structural integrity and safety of the dam. With a moderate risk level and a lack of condition assessment, there is a pressing need for further evaluation and potential risk management measures to safeguard this essential water resource in Georgia.

While Deerfield Lake Dam is not currently regulated by the state, its location in Hancock County, Georgia, showcases its significance as a crucial component of the local water infrastructure. As climate change continues to impact water resources worldwide, maintaining and upgrading dams like Deerfield Lake Dam will be essential for effective water management and mitigating potential risks associated with changing climate patterns.

Dam Length

750

Dam Height

16

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

18

Nid Storage

168

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

16
       
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.