Bush Big Irrigation Pond Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Bush Big Irrigation Pond Dam, also known as Bush Lake Dam, is a private earth dam located on Paul Creek in Coffee, Georgia.
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Summary
Built in 1979, this dam serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock storage, and small fish pond management. With a height of 17.4 feet and a length of 1850 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 652.5 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 60 acres. Despite being uncontrolled, the spillway type is listed as 'Uncontrolled' with a low hazard potential rating.
The dam, owned by a private entity, has not been regulated by the state but is subject to regular inspections with the last one conducted in July 2020. The risk assessment for Bush Big Irrigation Pond Dam is moderate with a DSAC assigned date yet to be determined. While the condition assessment remains unrated, the dam's emergency action plan status and compliance with guidelines are unclear. As a crucial water resource structure in the region, the dam plays a vital role in ensuring water availability for irrigation and livestock needs in the surrounding area.
In conclusion, Bush Big Irrigation Pond Dam stands as a significant feature on Paul Creek, providing essential services for fire protection, stock storage, and small fish pond management. With a moderate risk assessment and low hazard potential, this private earth dam continues to support the water needs of the local community while maintaining a reliable emergency response plan. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the functionality and maintenance of structures like Bush Big Irrigation Pond Dam is essential for sustainable water management practices in the region.
Year Completed |
1979 |
Dam Length |
1850 |
Dam Height |
17.4 |
River Or Stream |
PAUL CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
60 |
Drainage Area |
2585 |
Nid Storage |
652.5 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
17 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Turnpike Creek Near Mcrae
|
0cfs |
Ocmulgee River At Lumber City
|
2080cfs |
Alapaha River Near Alapaha
|
12cfs |
Oconee River Near Mount Vernon
|
2230cfs |
Altamaha River Near Baxley
|
3480cfs |
Little R At Tifton Worth Co Line Rd
|
0cfs |
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.
Bush Big Irrigation Pond Dam