Wiley Watson Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Wiley Watson Lake Dam, located in Madison, Georgia, is a private earth dam primarily used for recreational purposes.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Standing at a height of 25 feet and with a length of 246 feet, the dam provides a storage capacity of 55 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 4 acres. Although its hazard potential is rated as low, the dam is classified as having a moderate risk level, indicating the need for careful risk management measures.

Even though the dam has not been inspected since December 1992, it is still in moderate condition and has not been rated. Despite being non-federally regulated, the dam falls under the jurisdiction of the state of Georgia and undergoes regular state inspections. With an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, Wiley Watson Lake Dam presents a serene recreational area for water resource and climate enthusiasts to enjoy, surrounded by the picturesque landscape of Madison County.

For those interested in water resource management and climate change, Wiley Watson Lake Dam offers a unique blend of recreational opportunities and environmental stewardship. As a privately owned structure, the dam serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining and assessing the condition of dams, even those with a low hazard potential. With its moderate risk level and state jurisdiction, this dam in Georgia presents an intriguing case study for enthusiasts looking to understand the complexities of water infrastructure in the face of changing climate patterns.

Dam Length

246

Dam Height

25

River Or Stream

UNKNOWN

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

4

Drainage Area

56

Nid Storage

55

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

25
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

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.