Gary Paulk Irrigation Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Coffee, Georgia, the Gary Paulk Irrigation Pond Dam stands as a vital structure for fire protection and as a small fish pond.


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Summary

Built in 1960 by SCS, this earth dam reaches a height of 14.2 feet, with a storage capacity of 113.5 acre-feet. The dam's primary purpose is to safeguard the surrounding area and provide essential resources for the community.

With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment, the dam is deemed crucial for the region's water resource management. It spans 828 feet in length and covers a drainage area of 198 acres. Despite being unregulated by the state, the dam undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity and safety. The last inspection was conducted in July 2020, highlighting the commitment to maintaining this essential infrastructure.

In the picturesque setting of St. James Church Environs, the Gary Paulk Irrigation Pond Dam serves as a testament to the intersection of human ingenuity and environmental stewardship. While not federally owned or funded, this privately owned structure plays a vital role in ensuring water availability for irrigation and livestock. As climate change affects water resources, the importance of maintaining and enhancing such dams becomes increasingly apparent, making the Gary Paulk Irrigation Pond Dam a beacon of sustainability in the heart of Georgia.

Year Completed

1960

Dam Length

828

Dam Height

14.2

River Or Stream

UNKNOWN

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

11.5

Hydraulic Height

14

Drainage Area

198

Nid Storage

113.5

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

14
       
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.