Cochran-Padgett Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Cochran-Padgett Pond Dam, located in Burke, Georgia, is a privately-owned earth dam primarily used for recreation on the Palmer Branch river.


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Summary

Standing at a height of 15 feet with a hydraulic height of 13 feet, this dam offers a serene 20-acre surface area for water enthusiasts to enjoy. With a storage capacity of 166 acre-feet, the dam provides a tranquil setting for outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, and wildlife observation.

Despite its low hazard potential, Cochran-Padgett Pond Dam has not been rated for its condition assessment as of the last inspection in May 2014. The dam features uncontrolled spillways and outlet gates, making it a moderate risk for potential issues. However, with a regular inspection frequency of every 5 years, the authorities aim to ensure the safety of this recreational water resource for both the local community and visitors. While the dam is not federally regulated, it remains under state jurisdiction and is subject to state inspections to maintain its safety standards.

Overall, Cochran-Padgett Pond Dam presents a picturesque location for water resource and climate enthusiasts to explore and appreciate the natural beauty of the Burke, Georgia area. With its modest height and storage capacity, the dam offers a tranquil setting for recreational activities while also highlighting the importance of maintaining and inspecting dams to ensure the safety of all individuals who enjoy the surrounding waterways.

Dam Length

415

Dam Height

15

River Or Stream

PALMER BRANCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

20

Hydraulic Height

13

Nid Storage

166

Structural Height

13

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

15
       
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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.