Ward Lake Dam, also known as Ashurst Dam, is a private-owned structure located in Putnam, Georgia.
Wind
Humidity
Completed in 1960, this earth-type dam stands at a height of 18 feet and stretches 825 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 75 acre-feet. The primary purpose of Ward Lake Dam is for recreation, providing opportunities for water enthusiasts to enjoy activities such as fishing, boating, and wildlife observation in the area.
Managed by the Savannah District, Ward Lake Dam is classified as having a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment. While it is not regulated by the state, the dam has not been inspected or rated for condition assessment. Despite its uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, the dam continues to serve its purpose effectively, offering a serene environment for visitors to appreciate the beauty of nature while also understanding the importance of water resource management and climate resilience in the region.
For enthusiasts interested in water resources and climate, Ward Lake Dam presents an intriguing case study of a privately-owned recreational structure in Georgia. As a vital aspect of the local landscape, the dam offers a valuable opportunity to explore the intersection of human intervention in natural environments and the necessity of sustainable practices to ensure the long-term health and stability of our water resources. With its historical significance and functional purpose, Ward Lake Dam stands as a reminder of the delicate balance between human enjoyment and environmental conservation in the face of changing climate patterns and increasing water demands.
Year Completed |
1960 |
Dam Length |
825 |
Dam Height |
18 |
River Or Stream |
UNKNOWN |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
8 |
Nid Storage |
75 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
18 |
Little River Near Eatonton
|
158cfs |
Murder Creek Below Eatonton
|
82cfs |
Oconee River At Milledgeville
|
635cfs |
Oconee River Near Penfield
|
1060cfs |
Ocmulgee River Near Jackson
|
1640cfs |
Falling Creek Near Juliette
|
28cfs |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Old Salem
|
||
Lake Sinclair
|
||
Lake Sinclair Recreation Area
|
||
Oconee Springs County Park
|
||
Lawrence Shoals
|
||
Parks Ferry
|