Ponder Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Ponder Lake Dam, also known as the Ponder Plant Farm Irrigation Pond, is a privately owned structure located in Tift, Georgia.


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Summary

Built in 1969 by the Ponder Plant Company, this earth-type dam stands at a height of 13.7 feet and has a length of 845 feet. Its primary purpose is for irrigation, with a storage capacity of 167 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 98 acre-feet. The dam is situated on the Gator Branch river and serves the surrounding area of Omega Northeast Environs.

Despite being a privately owned dam, Ponder Lake Dam is subject to state jurisdiction and inspection. It has a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating. The last inspection was conducted in 2011, with a scheduled inspection frequency of 5 years. The dam features uncontrolled spillways and outlet gates, with no designated emergency action plan in place. While its condition assessment is currently not rated, the dam's risk management measures are not specified.

Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will find Ponder Lake Dam an intriguing structure due to its historical significance and its role in supporting irrigation activities in the region. With its unique design and location on Gator Branch, this earth dam offers a glimpse into the intersection of human engineering and natural water systems. A deeper examination of its risk assessment and emergency preparedness protocols could provide valuable insights for those interested in dam safety and management practices.

Year Completed

1969

Dam Length

845

Dam Height

13.7

River Or Stream

GATOR BRANCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

20

Drainage Area

470

Nid Storage

167

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

14
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.