Ranchland Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Ranchland Lake Dam, located in Pike, Georgia, is a private dam designed by S & S Engineers for flood risk reduction along Birch Creek.


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Summary

The earth dam stands at 20 feet high with a hydraulic height of 18 feet and a length of 1020 feet, providing a storage capacity of 700 acre-feet. Completed in 1990, the dam serves as a crucial structure in the Savannah District, ensuring the safety and protection of the surrounding area from potential flooding events.

With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, Ranchland Lake Dam has not been inspected since July 2007, highlighting the need for regular evaluations to maintain its structural integrity. While the dam is currently in a "Not Rated" condition, its emergency action plan status and risk management measures remain unspecified. Despite its relatively low risk profile, ongoing monitoring and maintenance are essential to uphold the dam's effectiveness in flood risk reduction and the safety of the community it serves.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the importance of Ranchland Lake Dam in mitigating flood risks and safeguarding the local environment is crucial. With its uncontrolled spillway and unregulated state permitting, ensuring the proper inspection and maintenance of the dam is vital for long-term resilience and disaster preparedness. As we continue to advocate for sustainable water management practices, staying informed about the condition and management of structures like Ranchland Lake Dam is key to promoting a resilient and climate-ready infrastructure for the future.

Year Completed

1990

Dam Length

1020

Dam Height

20

River Or Stream

BIRCH CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

37

Hydraulic Height

18

Nid Storage

700

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

20
       
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.