South Fork Broad River Ws #19 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

South Fork Broad River Watershed Structure #19 is a state-owned earth dam located in Oglethorpe, Georgia, with the primary purpose of flood risk reduction along Hawks Creek.


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Summary

Constructed in 1968 by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, this dam stands at a height of 41 feet and has a storage capacity of 1815 acre-feet. Despite its critical role in flood control, the dam is currently rated as having a high hazard potential and poor condition, last inspected in August 2016.

With a drainage area of 3854 acres and a normal storage capacity of 119.9 acre-feet, South Fork Broad River WS #19 poses a moderate risk, according to the data available. The dam features uncontrolled spillways and outlet gates, reflecting its outdated design in need of modernization. As climate change continues to impact water resources and increase the frequency of extreme weather events, it is crucial for the responsible state agency, the Georgia Safe Dams Program, to prioritize the maintenance and potential upgrades of this vital infrastructure to ensure the safety of downstream communities.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is imperative to monitor and advocate for the proper management of dams like South Fork Broad River WS #19 to mitigate flood risks and protect local ecosystems. By staying informed about the condition and regulatory oversight of such structures, we can contribute to the resilience of our water infrastructure in the face of changing environmental challenges. The data on this dam serves as a reminder of the ongoing need for proactive measures to safeguard our water resources and communities in the midst of a changing climate.

Year Completed

1968

Dam Length

510

Dam Height

41

River Or Stream

HAWKS CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

25

Drainage Area

3854

Nid Storage

1815

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

41
       
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.
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Area Campgrounds

Location Reservations Toilets
South Fork Broad River WS #19Pioneer 1 Preview Pioneer 1
South Fork Broad River WS #19Pioneer 2 Preview Pioneer 2
South Fork Broad River WS #19Pioneer 3 Preview Pioneer 3