Gay Pond Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Gay Pond Dam is a privately owned earth dam located in the Five Points Environs of Laurens, Georgia.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Built in 1960, this recreational dam stands at 9 feet tall and spans 580 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 119 acre-feet. Situated on the Land Branch river/stream, the dam serves primarily for recreational purposes and has a low hazard potential, with a moderate risk assessment rating. Despite being state regulated and inspected, the dam's condition assessment is currently not rated.
The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, and has not been modified in recent years. With a drainage area of 1150 acres and a surface area of 18 acres, Gay Pond Dam contributes to the local ecosystem while providing opportunities for outdoor activities. While it may not have a designated emergency action plan or meet all guidelines, the dam remains a valuable asset for water resource and climate enthusiasts in the area.
Although Gay Pond Dam is not under the jurisdiction of federal agencies, its presence adds to the overall water infrastructure in the region. With its scenic surroundings and recreational offerings, the dam presents a modest yet important piece of the water resource landscape in Georgia. Enthusiasts interested in exploring the intersection of water management, climate resilience, and recreational opportunities will find Gay Pond Dam to be an intriguing case study within the context of local water resource management.
Year Completed |
1960 |
Dam Length |
580 |
Dam Height |
9 |
River Or Stream |
LAND BRANCH |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
18 |
Drainage Area |
1150 |
Nid Storage |
119 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
9 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Oconee River At Dublin
|
1030cfs |
Oconee River Near Mount Vernon
|
1280cfs |
Turnpike Creek Near Mcrae
|
11cfs |
Ocmulgee River At Hawkinsville
|
1900cfs |
Ocmulgee River At Lumber City
|
2740cfs |
Oconee River Near Oconee
|
864cfs |
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.
Gay Pond Dam