Larry Deris Jones Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Located in Turner, Georgia, the Larry Deris Jones dam was completed in 1969 by the Natural Resources Conservation Service for the primary purpose of creating a Fish and Wildlife Pond.


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Summary

With a dam height of 20 feet and a length of 800 feet, this earth-type structure has a storage capacity of 211 acre-feet and serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock pond, and recreation. Situated along the Tr- Little River, the dam has a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment of 3 out of 5.

Despite being privately owned, the Larry Deris Jones dam is regulated and constructed by the USDA NRCS, ensuring proper maintenance and operation. While the dam itself does not have a significant surface area or drainage area, it still plays a critical role in water resource management and conservation in the area. The dam's spillway, with a width of 45 feet, is uncontrolled, allowing for controlled release of excess water in times of need.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will find the Larry Deris Jones dam to be an intriguing example of sustainable infrastructure designed to enhance local ecosystems and provide recreational opportunities. With its low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, this dam serves as a valuable asset in managing water resources and supporting wildlife in the Turner, Georgia area.

Year Completed

1969

Dam Length

800

Dam Height

20

River Or Stream

Tr- Little River

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Drainage Area

0.31

Nid Storage

211

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

20
       
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.