Watson Mill Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Watson Mill Pond Dam, also known as George L Smith State Park Dam, is a significant earth dam located in Twin City, Georgia.


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Summary

Built in 1880, this state-owned structure serves primarily for recreational purposes, offering a serene waterside retreat for visitors to enjoy. Standing at a height of 14.5 feet and stretching 750 feet in length, it holds a storage capacity of 5,800 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 412 acres.

Situated on Fifteen Mile Creek, Watson Mill Pond Dam is regulated by the state with regular inspections to ensure its safety and functionality. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment remains unrated. With its uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, the dam poses a moderate risk level, prompting the need for ongoing risk management measures. While the dam has not been modified in recent years, it continues to be a vital component of the local water resource infrastructure.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Watson Mill Pond Dam represents a historic and ecologically significant landmark in Emanuel County, Georgia. Its peaceful surroundings and recreational opportunities make it a popular destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. With its unique design and long-standing presence, the dam serves as a reminder of the importance of water management and conservation efforts in maintaining the sustainability of our natural resources.

Year Completed

1880

Dam Length

750

Dam Height

14.5

River Or Stream

FIFTEEN MILE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

412

Drainage Area

42000

Nid Storage

5800

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

15
       
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.
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