Bill Harper Irrigation Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Bill Harper Irrigation Pond Dam, also known as Harper Lake Dam, is a private earth dam located in Irwin County, Georgia.


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Summary

The dam, with a height of 14.3 feet and a length of 810 feet, serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock, and small fish pond. It has a storage capacity of 273.1 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 103 acre-feet and a surface area of 29 acres.

While the dam has a low hazard potential and is currently in "not rated" condition, its last inspection was conducted in 2009 with a recommended inspection frequency of 5 years. The dam features uncontrolled spillways and outlet gates, and is designated as having a moderate risk level. Located within the jurisdiction of the state of Georgia, the dam is not federally regulated and has no associated state permitting or enforcement agencies.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Bill Harper Irrigation Pond Dam offers a glimpse into the intricate network of private dams that play a vital role in managing water resources for agricultural and environmental purposes. The dam's design and purpose highlight the importance of small-scale water infrastructure in supporting local ecosystems and communities. Despite its relatively low hazard potential, regular inspections and maintenance are crucial to ensure the safety and efficiency of this essential water resource structure.

Dam Length

810

Dam Height

14.3

River Or Stream

UNKNOWN

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

29

Nid Storage

273.1

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

14
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

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.