Johnson Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 12, 2025

Johnson Dam, also known as Nelson Lake Dam, is a private earth dam located in the Plainview Community of Warren, Georgia.


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Summary

Built in 1952 by the USDA NRCS, this dam serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock, and a small fish pond. With a height of 22.1 feet and a storage capacity of 80.9 acre-feet, Johnson Dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the area, particularly for the TR-Brier Creek.

Despite being unregulated by the state and having a low hazard potential, Johnson Dam poses a moderate risk due to its condition assessment being not rated. The dam's spillway type is uncontrolled, and it lacks outlet gates, indicating potential vulnerabilities in its operation. Water resource enthusiasts and climate advocates should monitor Johnson Dam closely to ensure its maintenance and safety standards are up to date, especially in the face of increasing climate variability and extreme weather events that could impact its structural integrity.

In the event of an emergency, it is important for the community and relevant authorities to have updated emergency action plans and contact information, as well as preparedness measures in place. With its significant role in water management and potential risks involved, Johnson Dam serves as a reminder of the importance of proactive monitoring and maintenance of critical infrastructure in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1952

Dam Length

410

Dam Height

22.1

River Or Stream

TR-BRIER CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

6.5

Hydraulic Height

19.5

Drainage Area

170

Nid Storage

80.9

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

22
       
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.