Derris Jones Lake Dam No 3 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Derris Jones Lake Dam No 3 is a privately-owned irrigation dam located in Chula, Georgia.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Built in 1979, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 16.2 feet and spans 520 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 97.5 acre-feet. The dam serves the primary purpose of irrigation, with a normal storage level of 45 acre-feet and a surface area of 9 acres.
Despite its low hazard potential, Derris Jones Lake Dam No 3 is currently not rated for its condition assessment. It has an uncontrolled spillway type and outlet gates, with no associated locks. The dam is not regulated or inspected by the state, raising concerns about its maintenance and safety standards. However, the risk assessment for this dam is moderate, highlighting the need for proactive risk management measures to ensure its long-term integrity and functionality.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Derris Jones Lake Dam No 3 serves as a noteworthy example of a privately-owned irrigation structure in Georgia. Its design and construction details, along with its operational characteristics, provide valuable insights into the management and safety considerations of such dams. As the dam continues to play a vital role in supporting agricultural activities in the region, it underscores the importance of regular inspections, maintenance, and risk mitigation strategies to safeguard water resources and the surrounding community.
Year Completed |
1979 |
Dam Length |
520 |
Dam Height |
16.2 |
River Or Stream |
NO NAME |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
9 |
Drainage Area |
145 |
Nid Storage |
97.5 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
16 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Little R At Tifton Worth Co Line Rd
|
0cfs |
Alapaha River Near Alapaha
|
12cfs |
Flint River At Ga 32
|
4340cfs |
Little River Near Adel
|
3cfs |
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.
Derris Jones Lake Dam No 3