Settingdown Creek Ws Str # 59 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Settingdown Creek WS Str # 59 is a state-owned earth dam located in Forsyth, Georgia, specifically in the Coal Mountain Community.
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Summary
Built in 1954 by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, this dam serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction with a storage capacity of 586 acre-feet and a normal storage of 67 acre-feet. The dam stands at a height of 26 feet and spans a length of 438 feet, with a surface area of 6 acres and a drainage area of 1.8 square miles.
Despite its critical role in flood risk reduction, Settingdown Creek WS Str # 59 is rated as having a high hazard potential and poor condition assessment. The last inspection of the dam took place in December 1992, with an inspection frequency of every two years. The dam is classified as having a moderate risk level (3) and falls under the jurisdiction of the Georgia Safe Dams Program, with state regulation, permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place to ensure compliance with safety standards. With its uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, Settingdown Creek WS Str # 59 remains a significant structure in the region's water resource and climate management efforts.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Settingdown Creek WS Str # 59 presents a fascinating case study of a vital infrastructure designed to mitigate flood risks in Georgia. With its historical significance and current condition assessment indicating the need for maintenance and potential risk management measures, this dam serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges and responsibilities associated with managing water resources and infrastructure in a changing climate. As efforts continue to ensure the safety and effectiveness of structures like Settingdown Creek WS Str # 59, the importance of proactive monitoring, maintenance, and risk assessment in safeguarding communities and ecosystems from the impacts of extreme weather events becomes increasingly evident.
Year Completed |
1954 |
Dam Length |
438 |
Dam Height |
26 |
River Or Stream |
UNKNOWN |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
6 |
Drainage Area |
1.8 |
Nid Storage |
586 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
26 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
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