L. B. Powell Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
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Summary
B. Powell Dam, located in Thomas County, Georgia, was completed in 1972 by the Natural Resources Conservation Service and serves as a vital resource for fish and wildlife ponds, irrigation, and recreation. This earthen dam stands at 25 feet tall and spans 630 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 35 acre-feet. Situated on Tr- Olive Creek, the dam plays a crucial role in maintaining the water supply and supporting the ecosystem in the area.
Despite its low hazard potential, L. B. Powell Dam is subject to moderate risk, with a drainage area of 0.05 square miles and a maximum discharge capacity of 880 cubic feet per second. The spillway, measuring 30 feet in width, is uncontrolled, highlighting the importance of effective monitoring and maintenance practices to ensure the dam's structural integrity. While the dam is not currently regulated by state agencies, its significance for water resource management and environmental conservation underscores the need for ongoing assessment and risk management measures to safeguard the surrounding community.
As a private-owned structure, L. B. Powell Dam stands as a testament to the collaborative efforts between federal agencies and local stakeholders in promoting sustainable water management practices. With its focus on fish and wildlife preservation, irrigation, and recreational activities, the dam serves as a multifaceted resource that contributes to the overall well-being of the region. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the complexities and importance of structures like L. B. Powell Dam can help us appreciate the intricate balance between human needs and environmental sustainability in our ever-changing world.
Year Completed |
1972 |
Dam Length |
630 |
Dam Height |
25 |
River Or Stream |
Tr- Olive Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Drainage Area |
0.05 |
Nid Storage |
35 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
25 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
L. B. Powell Dam