Engelhard Trapnell # 3 Plant Tailings Pond Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
The Engelhard Trapnell # 3 Plant Tailings Pond in Wilkinson, Georgia, is a privately-owned structure designed by Engelhard and completed in 1983.
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Summary
This earth dam, with a height of 50 feet and a length of 7800 feet, was built for the primary purpose of storing tailings. It has a storage capacity of 2250 acre-feet and covers an area of 83 acres, serving as a critical component of the industrial process at the plant.
Despite being privately owned, the state jurisdiction ensures regular inspections of the pond, with the last inspection conducted in January 2018. The dam is classified as low hazard potential, with a moderate risk assessment score of 3. While it currently does not have a formal condition assessment, the structure is deemed to be in satisfactory condition. The presence of uncontrolled spillways and outlet gates, however, raises concerns regarding the potential for environmental impact in the event of a breach or overflow.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Engelhard Trapnell # 3 Plant Tailings Pond stands as a testament to the delicate balance between industrial development and environmental stewardship. As discussions around dam safety and risk management continue, the importance of regular inspections and adherence to regulatory standards becomes increasingly apparent. This structure serves as a reminder of the need for sustainable practices in managing water resources and mitigating potential hazards associated with industrial activities.
Year Completed |
1983 |
Dam Length |
7800 |
Dam Height |
50 |
River Or Stream |
UNKNOWN |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
83 |
Drainage Area |
84 |
Nid Storage |
2250 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
50 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Oconee River At Avant Mine
|
846cfs |
Oconee River At Milledgeville
|
635cfs |
Buffalo Creek At Ga 272
|
145cfs |
Oconee River Near Oconee
|
1430cfs |
Ocmulgee River At Macon
|
2030cfs |
Oconee River At Dublin
|
2420cfs |
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.
Engelhard Trapnell # 3 Plant Tailings Pond