Abercrombie Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Abercrombie Lake Dam, located in Hawkinsville, Georgia, serves as a vital resource for irrigation purposes along Town Creek.


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Summary

Constructed in 1965, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 13.2 feet and spans 400 feet in length, with a maximum storage capacity of 150 acre-feet. The dam's primary designer, Tom Chapin, ensured its structural integrity for the past decades, with the last inspection conducted in March 2013, indicating a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating of 3.

Owned privately, Abercrombie Lake Dam has not been subjected to state regulation or permitting, but is regularly inspected by state authorities. Its uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates suggest a basic design, yet its significance in sustaining local agricultural activities cannot be underestimated. With a drainage area of 3,330 acres and a normal storage capacity of 83 acre-feet, this dam plays a crucial role in ensuring water availability for irrigation in the region and highlights the importance of efficient water resource management in the face of climate variability.

Despite its unassuming features, Abercrombie Lake Dam symbolizes the intersection of human ingenuity and natural resources in mitigating the impacts of climate change on water availability. As water resource and climate enthusiasts analyze its design and functionality, the dam stands as a testament to the intricate balance between human needs and environmental sustainability. With its strategic location and historical significance, Abercrombie Lake Dam continues to be a focal point for discussions on water management practices and resilience in the face of a changing climate.

Year Completed

1965

Dam Length

400

Dam Height

13.2

River Or Stream

TOWN CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

18.5

Hydraulic Height

12.2

Drainage Area

3330

Nid Storage

150

Structural Height

12.2

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

13
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.