Mcdonough Ash Pond # 4 Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Mcdonough Ash Pond # 4 Dam, located in Smyrna, Georgia, was completed in 1974 by the Georgia Power Company.


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Summary

This private dam serves a primary purpose that is classified as 'Other', with a design primarily consisting of Earth and Buttress core types. Standing at 75 feet tall and spanning a length of 4440 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 1800 acre-feet and a surface area of 50 acres.

Despite being regulated by the GA-SAFE DAMS PROGRAM and having undergone inspections in 2016, the dam carries a Hazard Potential rating of 'High'. However, its overall condition assessment was reported as 'Satisfactory'. With a moderate risk assessment score of 3, the dam's emergency action plan status and risk management measures remain unspecified. While the dam may pose certain risks, its operational status and compliance with state regulations suggest a level of stability in its function and safety protocols.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts monitoring Mcdonough Ash Pond # 4 Dam should be aware of its location in Cobb County, Georgia, and its association with the Georgia Power Company. The dam's high hazard potential underscores the importance of continued inspections and risk management efforts to ensure the safety of surrounding communities and the integrity of the water resource infrastructure. The data provided offers a snapshot of the dam's specifications, regulatory oversight, and risk assessment, highlighting the complex considerations involved in managing and maintaining critical water structures in the face of evolving environmental challenges.

Year Completed

1974

Dam Length

4440

Dam Height

75

River Or Stream

Unknown

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

50

Nid Storage

1800

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

75
       
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.