Georgia Kaolin Reject Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 14, 2025

The Georgia Kaolin Reject Pond Dam, also known as Yara Engineering Reject Pond Dam, is a private structure located in Jefferson, Georgia.


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Summary

Constructed in 1981 by Golder & Associates, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 32 feet and stretches 1170 feet in length. Its primary purpose is to contain tailings, with a storage capacity of 387 acre-feet and serving the Rayburn Branch.

Despite being state-jurisdictioned and regularly inspected, this dam is classified as having a low hazard potential and a moderate risk level. With an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, the Georgia Kaolin Reject Pond Dam poses a moderate risk (level 3) and has not been subject to a condition assessment. Although it meets regulations and inspection guidelines, the dam's overall risk management measures and emergency action plan status remain unspecified.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will find the Georgia Kaolin Reject Pond Dam to be an intriguing structure, given its unique design and purpose in managing tailings. As a privately owned dam in Jefferson, Georgia, it serves a crucial role in water containment for the surrounding area. With moderate risk ratings and a low hazard potential, it stands as a testament to the importance of proper dam maintenance and risk management in safeguarding our water resources.

Year Completed

1981

Dam Length

1170

Dam Height

32

River Or Stream

RAYBURN BRANCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

24

Hydraulic Height

29

Drainage Area

665

Nid Storage

387

Structural Height

29

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

32
       
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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.