Sandy Creek Ws Structure # 15 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Sandy Creek WS Structure # 15, located in Commerce Community, Georgia, is a state-regulated dam on Big Sandy Creek primarily designed for flood risk reduction.
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Summary
Completed in 1962 by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, this earth dam stands at a height of 38 feet with a hydraulic height of 28 feet and a length of 724 feet. It has a storage capacity of 1205 acre-feet and serves a drainage area of 2604 acres, making it a crucial infrastructure for managing water resources in the region.
Despite its vital role, Sandy Creek WS Structure # 15 presents certain challenges as it has been assessed as having a poor condition, with a high hazard potential. The last inspection conducted in January 2017 highlighted the need for improvements to ensure the dam's safety and functionality. With a moderate risk assessment rating, there is a call for risk management measures to be implemented to address the existing vulnerabilities and enhance the resilience of the structure.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts closely monitor the status of dams like Sandy Creek WS Structure # 15, there is a growing awareness of the importance of investing in infrastructure upgrades and maintenance to mitigate potential risks and safeguard communities downstream. With its history of flood risk reduction and ongoing regulatory oversight by the Georgia-SAFE DAMS PROGRAM, this dam serves as a focal point for ongoing discussions on water management practices and the need for sustainable solutions in the face of changing environmental conditions.
Year Completed |
1962 |
Dam Length |
724 |
Dam Height |
38 |
River Or Stream |
BIG SANDY CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
27 |
Hydraulic Height |
28 |
Drainage Area |
2604 |
Nid Storage |
1205 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
38 |
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.
Sandy Creek Ws Structure # 15