Ponder Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Bartow, Georgia, Ponder Lake Dam is a private-owned structure primarily designed for recreational purposes.


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Summary

Standing at a height of 32 feet with a length of 495 feet, this earth dam serves as a vital component for maintaining a reservoir with a storage capacity of 58.8 acre-feet. The dam overlooks a serene body of water, with a surface area of 2.7 acres and a drainage area of 160 acres.

Constructed with a buttress core type, Ponder Lake Dam features uncontrolled spillways and outlets, emphasizing its low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment. Despite not being state-regulated, the dam undergoes regular inspections every five years to ensure its structural integrity and safety standards. With its scenic location in Center, Georgia, the dam stands as a testament to responsible water resource management and environmental preservation.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Ponder Lake Dam serves as a compelling case study in private dam ownership and recreational infrastructure development. From its designer, Joe Branyon Jr., to its unique features such as uncontrolled spillways and outlets, the dam showcases the intersection of human engineering with natural landscapes. As a key element in the local ecosystem, this earth dam not only provides recreational opportunities but also highlights the importance of regular monitoring and risk assessment in maintaining water safety and environmental sustainability.

Dam Length

495

Dam Height

32

River Or Stream

Name unknown

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

2.7

Hydraulic Height

32

Drainage Area

160

Nid Storage

58.8

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

32
       
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.