Garrison Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Garrison Lake Dam, located in Tifton, Georgia, is a privately owned earth dam with a primary purpose of recreation.
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Summary
Built in 1964 by SCS/EDWARDS, the dam stands at 17.7 feet in height and spans 470 feet in length, creating a reservoir with a storage capacity of 206 acre-feet. While the dam is not state-regulated, it is inspected periodically to ensure its structural integrity, with the last inspection dating back to November 2005.
Despite its low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, Garrison Lake Dam plays a significant role in providing recreational opportunities for the local community. With a surface area of 21 acres and a drainage area of 125 square miles, the dam offers a serene setting for outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, and birdwatching. While the dam's spillway is uncontrolled, the dam itself remains a vital part of the landscape, contributing to the environmental and social well-being of the area.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Garrison Lake Dam serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining and monitoring infrastructure for both safety and enjoyment. As a privately owned structure, the dam represents a harmonious blend of human engineering and natural beauty, showcasing the potential for sustainable water management practices. With its historical significance and recreational value, Garrison Lake Dam stands as a testament to the enduring relationship between communities and their water resources in the face of changing climates and evolving needs.
Year Completed |
1964 |
Dam Length |
470 |
Dam Height |
17.7 |
River Or Stream |
UNKNOWN |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
21 |
Drainage Area |
125 |
Nid Storage |
206 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
18 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Little R At Tifton Worth Co Line Rd
|
0cfs |
Alapaha River Near Alapaha
|
12cfs |
Little River Near Adel
|
3cfs |
Flint River At Ga 32
|
4340cfs |
Flint River At Albany
|
3510cfs |
Muckalee Creek At Ga 195
|
419cfs |
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.
Garrison Lake Dam