Donald Pope Irrigation Pond Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Located in Irwin, Georgia, the Donald Pope Irrigation Pond Dam, also known as Pope Lake Dam, stands as a testament to sustainable water resource management since its completion in 1968.
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Summary
Designed by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, this private-owned Earth dam serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock, and small fish pond. With a height of 14 feet and a length of 630 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 65 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 7 acres.
Despite its low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, the dam has not been state-regulated or inspected. Its uncontrolled spillway type raises concerns about potential overflow events, although the risk management measures and emergency preparedness plans remain unclear. The dam's proximity to the Landing Strip Community underscores the importance of ongoing maintenance and monitoring to ensure the safety of both the structure and the surrounding environment. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Donald Pope Irrigation Pond Dam serves as a case study in the intersection of human intervention and natural ecosystems, highlighting the need for responsible stewardship of water resources in the face of changing climatic conditions.
Year Completed |
1968 |
Dam Length |
630 |
Dam Height |
14 |
River Or Stream |
UNKNOWN |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
7 |
Drainage Area |
114 |
Nid Storage |
65 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
14 |
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.
Donald Pope Irrigation Pond Dam