Odom Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Odom Lake Dam, located in Sylvester, Georgia, serves as a vital irrigation resource in Worth County.


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Summary

Constructed in 1965, this earth dam stands at a height of 15.75 feet and has a storage capacity of 91.95 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 30.61 acres. The dam also covers a surface area of 8.6 acres and is situated along an unnamed river or stream, within the Jacksonville District of the US Army Corps of Engineers.

Designed by Brian Kimsey, P.E., Odom Lake Dam is primarily used for irrigation purposes and features an uncontrolled spillway. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam's risk assessment is rated as moderate (3). The last inspection in March 2019 deemed the dam's condition as "Not Rated," with no enforcement or regulatory measures in place at the state level. While the dam has not been modified in recent years, it remains a critical water management structure for the local community.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Odom Lake Dam represents a significant piece of Georgia's infrastructure, providing essential irrigation support while also posing a moderate risk due to its age and condition. With its strategic location in Worth County and the surrounding drainage area of 220.5 square miles, the dam plays a crucial role in water supply management and agricultural activities in the region. As efforts to assess and manage risks associated with the dam continue, its preservation and upkeep remain paramount for sustainable water resource management in the area.

Year Completed

1965

Dam Length

596

Dam Height

15.75

River Or Stream

Unnamed

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

8.6

Hydraulic Height

15.75

Drainage Area

220.5

Nid Storage

91.95

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

16
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.