Saye Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 22, 2025

Saye Dam, also known as Saye Lake, is a private dam located in Morgan, Georgia, near the city of Dorsey.


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Summary

Built in 1957 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 23 feet and spans a length of 560 feet along Rawlings Branch. With a primary purpose of serving as a Fish and Wildlife Pond, Saye Dam also caters to recreational activities in the area.

The dam has a storage capacity of 244 acre-feet and a drainage area of 0.39 square miles. It features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 60 feet and a maximum discharge rate of 936 cubic feet per second. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam is classified as having a moderate risk level. However, the condition assessment for Saye Dam is currently marked as "Not Available," indicating a need for further evaluation and monitoring to ensure its continued safety and functionality.

Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will find Saye Dam to be an intriguing structure that plays a crucial role in supporting fish and wildlife habitats while also providing recreational opportunities in the region. With its historical significance dating back to the 1950s and its unique design features, Saye Dam serves as a focal point for conservation efforts and environmental management in the area. Further research and assessments are necessary to ensure the long-term sustainability and safety of this vital water resource in Georgia.

Year Completed

1957

Dam Length

560

Dam Height

23

River Or Stream

Rawlings Branch

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Drainage Area

0.39

Nid Storage

244

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

23
       
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.