Willoughby Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in the picturesque surroundings of Oak Grove Church Environs in Baldwin, Georgia, Willoughby Lake Dam stands as a testament to engineering excellence since its completion in 1945.


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Summary

This private dam, primarily used for recreation, spans 475 feet in length and boasts a height of 15 feet, providing a storage capacity of 69 acre-feet and covering a surface area of 6 acres. The dam overlooks the serene Reed Creek, offering water resource and climate enthusiasts a tranquil setting for outdoor activities.

Despite its low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment rating, Willoughby Lake Dam has not been inspected or assessed for its condition, signaling a need for further evaluation. The dam's uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates pose potential challenges in managing water flow, highlighting the importance of regular maintenance and monitoring. With the Savannah District overseeing its operations, this Earth-type dam with a buttress core serves as an essential recreational asset in the region, welcoming visitors to enjoy its scenic beauty and water activities.

As climate change continues to impact water resources and infrastructure, the significance of maintaining structures like Willoughby Lake Dam becomes even more critical. While the dam provides a valuable recreational outlet, ensuring its safety and functionality through regular inspections and risk management measures is essential to safeguarding the surrounding community and environment. Water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate the balance between nature and engineering at Willoughby Lake Dam, making it a fascinating site to explore and learn about the intersection of water management and climate resilience.

Year Completed

1945

Dam Length

475

Dam Height

15

River Or Stream

REEDY CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

6

Hydraulic Height

15

Drainage Area

160

Nid Storage

69

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

15
       
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.