Johnston Irrigation Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Maude Lake Dam Bickley Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Johnston Irrigation Lake Dam, located in Upson, Georgia, serves as a critical water resource for irrigation purposes in the region.
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Summary
Built in 1979 by the Soil Conservation Service (SCS), this earth dam stands at a height of 25 feet and spans 555 feet in length. With a storage capacity of 354 acre-feet and a surface area of 22 acres, the dam plays a vital role in managing water supply for agricultural activities along the Little Swift Creek.
Despite being privately owned, Johnston Irrigation Lake Dam is subject to state inspection, ensuring its structural integrity and compliance with regulations. The dam boasts a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating. While its condition remains unrated, the dam's emergency action plan (EAP) status and risk management measures are currently undisclosed. With its uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, the dam stands as a testament to efficient water management in the face of climate challenges.
Overall, Johnston Irrigation Lake Dam stands as a testament to sustainable water resource management in Georgia. Its presence along the Little Swift Creek not only supports local irrigation needs but also showcases the importance of infrastructure in adapting to changing climate conditions. As enthusiasts of water resources and climate, the significance of Johnston Irrigation Lake Dam lies in its contribution to agricultural sustainability and water security in the region.
Year Completed |
1979 |
Dam Length |
555 |
Dam Height |
25 |
River Or Stream |
LITTLE SWIFT CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
22 |
Drainage Area |
800 |
Nid Storage |
354 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
25 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Flint River Near Culloden
|
1240cfs |
Shoal Creek At Shoal Creek Rd
|
17cfs |
Flint River Near Griffin
|
341cfs |
Tobesofkee Creek Near Macon
|
6cfs |
Line Creek Near Senoia
|
24cfs |
Falling Creek Near Juliette
|
21cfs |
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.
Johnston Irrigation Lake Dam