Babcock Wilcox Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Rhodes Pond Community, Georgia, Babcock Wilcox Lake Dam is a private earth dam built in 1973 by SCS with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

Standing at a height of 26.6 feet, the dam holds a storage capacity of 85 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 60 acre-feet. Its spillway type is uncontrolled, and it poses a low hazard potential according to assessments. The dam sits on Grindstone Branch and is managed by private owners, offering opportunities for water resource and climate enthusiasts to explore and appreciate the beauty of the surrounding area.

Despite not being state-regulated, Babcock Wilcox Lake Dam serves as a vital recreational spot in Richmond, Georgia, inviting visitors to enjoy its 8-acre surface area and the scenic environment it creates. The dam's design includes a buttress core type and an unlisted/unknown foundation, contributing to its structural integrity for over four decades. While the dam currently holds a moderate risk rating of 3, its condition remains unrated as of the most recent data update in April 2021. With its tranquil setting and potential for outdoor activities, the dam stands as a testament to the intersection of human ingenuity and environmental stewardship in maintaining water resources for future generations.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate Babcock Wilcox Lake Dam not only for its recreational value but also for its role in managing the flow of Grindstone Branch. The dam's uncontrolled outlet gates and lack of state inspections indicate a reliance on private oversight, highlighting the importance of community involvement in maintaining infrastructure. With a focus on risk management measures and emergency preparedness, the dam represents a balance between human development and environmental conservation, showcasing the need for sustainable practices in water resource management. As visitors explore this picturesque site, they can witness firsthand the harmonious coexistence of nature and engineering in shaping the local landscape.

Year Completed

1973

Dam Length

420

Dam Height

26.6

River Or Stream

GRINDSTONE BRANCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

8

Hydraulic Height

21

Nid Storage

85

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

27
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

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Nearby Streamflow Levels

Babcock Wilcox Lake DamSPIRIT CREEK AT US 1 Preview Spirit Creek At Us 1
11.6cfs
12cfs
Babcock Wilcox Lake DamBUTLER CREEK BELOW 7TH AVENUE Preview Butler Creek Below 7th Avenue
9.54cfs
10cfs
Babcock Wilcox Lake DamSAVANNAH RIVER AT AUGUSTA Preview Savannah River At Augusta
6200.0cfs
6200cfs
Babcock Wilcox Lake DamAUGUSTA CANAL NR AUGUSTA (UPPER) Preview Augusta Canal Nr Augusta (Upper)
1830.0cfs
1830cfs
Babcock Wilcox Lake DamBRIER CREEK NEAR WAYNESBORO Preview Brier Creek Near Waynesboro
396.0cfs
396cfs
Babcock Wilcox Lake DamSTEVENS CREEK NEAR MODOC Preview Stevens Creek Near Modoc
325.0cfs
325cfs

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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Nearby Reservoirs