Engelhard Kaolin Tailings Pond Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
The Engelhard Kaolin Tailings Pond Dam, also known as the Freeport Kaolin Tailing Pond Dam, is a private earth dam located in Wilkinson, Georgia.
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Summary
Built in 1968 by Dames and Moore, this dam stands at a height of 44 feet and has a hydraulic height of 13 feet. The primary purpose of this structure is to contain tailings, with a storage capacity of 760 acre-feet and a surface area of 96 acres.
While the dam is classified as having a low hazard potential, it is important to note that it is uncontrolled, with uncontrolled spillways and outlets. Despite not being state-regulated, the dam undergoes regular inspections, with the last inspection reported in January 2018. The risk assessment for this dam is moderate, indicating a potential need for ongoing monitoring and risk management measures.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Engelhard Kaolin Tailings Pond Dam presents an intriguing case study in dam management and risk assessment. With its unique design features and historical significance, this dam serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining and monitoring critical infrastructure to ensure the safety of surrounding communities and the environment.
Year Completed |
1968 |
Dam Length |
2475 |
Dam Height |
44 |
River Or Stream |
UNKNOWN |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
96 |
Hydraulic Height |
13 |
Nid Storage |
760 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
44 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Oconee River At Avant Mine
|
846cfs |
Oconee River At Milledgeville
|
635cfs |
Ocmulgee River At Macon
|
2030cfs |
Buffalo Creek At Ga 272
|
145cfs |
Oconee River Near Oconee
|
1430cfs |
Tobesofkee Creek Near Macon
|
6cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Engelhard Kaolin Tailings Pond Dam