Washinton-Wilkes Orchard Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Washington-Wilkes Orchard Dam, located in the Celeste Community of Wilkes, Georgia, is a privately owned earth dam primarily used for irrigation purposes.
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Summary
Constructed in 1978 by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, the dam stands at a height of 22 feet with a length of 228 feet, providing a storage capacity of 66 acre-feet. Despite being unregulated by the state and having a low hazard potential, the dam is classified as having a moderate risk level, highlighting the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance.
The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, with a buttress core type and an unknown foundation. While it has not been rated for its condition, the risk assessment indicates a moderate level of risk associated with the structure. Although the dam has not been modified in recent years and lacks an emergency action plan, it serves as a crucial water resource for the area. With its location in a region vulnerable to climate change impacts, such as increased droughts and extreme weather events, the Washington-Wilkes Orchard Dam underscores the significance of sustainable water management practices in the face of evolving environmental challenges.
As a key feature in the local water infrastructure, Washington-Wilkes Orchard Dam contributes to the agricultural activities in the area and plays a vital role in ensuring water availability for irrigation purposes. With its historical significance and practical utility, the dam serves as a reminder of the importance of responsible water resource management in the context of changing climate conditions. By prioritizing regular inspections, risk assessments, and potential mitigation measures, stakeholders can work towards safeguarding the dam and its surrounding ecosystem for future generations.
Year Completed |
1978 |
Dam Length |
228 |
Dam Height |
22 |
River Or Stream |
UNKNOWN |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
6 |
Nid Storage |
66 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
22 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Kettle Creek Near Washington
|
6cfs |
Broad River Near Bell
|
672cfs |
Little River Near Washington
|
46cfs |
South Fork Broad River At Carlton
|
87cfs |
Broad River Above Carlton
|
327cfs |
Oconee River Near Penfield
|
527cfs |
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.
Washinton-Wilkes Orchard Dam