Sanders Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Sanders Lake Dam, located in Colquitt, Georgia, was completed in 1950 and serves primarily for irrigation purposes.
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Summary
This private-owned earth dam stands at a height of 14.4 feet with a hydraulic height of 13.6 feet, creating a storage capacity of 76.8 acre-feet. The dam spans 485 feet in length and covers a surface area of 10 acres, supporting a drainage area of 140 acres.
Despite being unregulated by the state and with a low hazard potential, Sanders Lake Dam still carries a moderate risk rating due to its age and lack of recent inspections. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, with no recorded modifications over the years. The last inspection took place in 2004, and the condition assessment remains unrated. While it may not pose an immediate threat, ongoing monitoring and potentially updating emergency action plans are recommended to ensure the safety and functionality of this vital water resource in the region.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Sanders Lake Dam presents an intriguing case study in the maintenance and management of aging infrastructure. Its role in supporting irrigation activities underscores the importance of sustainable water management practices. As the climate continues to change, ensuring the safety and resilience of dams like Sanders Lake Dam will be crucial in adapting to future water challenges and safeguarding the surrounding communities and ecosystems.
Year Completed |
1950 |
Dam Length |
485 |
Dam Height |
14.4 |
River Or Stream |
UNKNOWN |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
10 |
Hydraulic Height |
13.6 |
Drainage Area |
140 |
Nid Storage |
76.8 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
14 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Flint River At Albany
|
3510cfs |
Flint River At Newton
|
4380cfs |
Little R At Tifton Worth Co Line Rd
|
0cfs |
Little River Near Adel
|
3cfs |
Flint River At Ga 32
|
4340cfs |
Ochlockonee River Near Thomasville
|
17cfs |
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.
Sanders Lake Dam