Lower Hawkins Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lower Hawkins Lake Dam, located in the serene Lake Sinclair Community in Jones, Georgia, was completed in 1972 with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

The dam, standing at a height of 24 feet and a length of 610 feet, offers a storage capacity of 142 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 13 acres. Although the dam is classified as an Earth-type structure with a Buttress core, its hazard potential is considered low, with a moderate risk assessment rating of 3.

Managed by a private owner, the dam is not state-regulated or permitted, but does undergo regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity. The Natural Resources Conservation Service played a key role in its design, and the Savannah District of the US Army Corps of Engineers oversees the area. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, contributing to its recreational function for the local community and visitors alike.

Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will appreciate Lower Hawkins Lake Dam for its peaceful setting, efficient design, and commitment to safety. With its moderate risk assessment and low hazard potential, the dam serves as a valuable asset for recreation and water management in the area. As an Earth-type structure with a Buttress core, it stands as a testament to effective engineering and responsible stewardship of natural resources in Georgia's landscape.

Year Completed

1972

Dam Length

610

Dam Height

24

River Or Stream

UNKNOWN

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

13

Drainage Area

165

Nid Storage

142

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

24
       
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.