Payne Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Payne Dam in Madison, Georgia, is a privately-owned earth dam built in 1970 primarily for recreational purposes.


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Summary

Standing at 16 feet high and 660 feet long, the dam boasts a storage capacity of 114 acre-feet. Located in the Comer Environs, the dam offers a surface area of 12 acres for outdoor activities such as fishing and boating.

Despite its low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, Payne Dam has not been rated for its condition as of yet. The dam is uncontrolled with an unlisted foundation type, and its last inspection took place in April 2016. With a five-year inspection frequency, the dam remains under the jurisdiction of the state of Georgia, with no federal regulations governing its operation or maintenance.

Overall, Payne Dam serves as a key recreational resource in the area, providing opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy the natural surroundings. While it may not be subject to stringent regulatory oversight, the dam continues to offer a safe and enjoyable environment for visitors seeking a peaceful retreat in the heart of Georgia's picturesque landscape.

Year Completed

1970

Dam Length

660

Dam Height

16

River Or Stream

UNKNOWN

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

12

Nid Storage

114

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

16
       
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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Area Campgrounds

Location Reservations Toilets
Payne DamPioneer 1 Preview Pioneer 1
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Payne DamPioneer 2 Preview Pioneer 2