Watkins Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Dean Scarborough Bell Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Watkins Lake Dam in Dodge, Georgia, is a privately owned earth dam constructed in 1994 for irrigation purposes.
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Summary
The dam stands at 18 feet high with a hydraulic height of 19 feet, providing a storage capacity of 377 acre-feet and a normal storage of 240 acre-feet. With a surface area of 32 acres, Watkins Lake Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in the area.
Despite being unregulated by the state, the dam has a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, and it was designed by the SCS. The last inspection in 2017 deemed the dam's condition as "not rated," illustrating the need for further evaluation and risk management measures. With a location in a rural setting, Watkins Lake Dam serves as a vital infrastructure for local agricultural activities but requires regular monitoring and maintenance to ensure its safety and functionality for the surrounding community.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the significance of Watkins Lake Dam in the Savannah District is paramount for assessing the water storage and management capabilities in the region. While the dam currently poses a low hazard potential, it is essential for stakeholders to prioritize regular inspections, risk assessments, and potential risk management measures to ensure the long-term sustainability of this critical infrastructure. By staying informed and engaged in the monitoring and maintenance efforts of Watkins Lake Dam, enthusiasts can play a crucial role in safeguarding water resources and adapting to climate challenges in the area.
Year Completed |
1994 |
Dam Length |
1000 |
Dam Height |
18 |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
32 |
Hydraulic Height |
19 |
Nid Storage |
377 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
19 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Turnpike Creek Near Mcrae
|
0cfs |
Ocmulgee River At Lumber City
|
2080cfs |
Tucsawhatchee Creek Near Hawkinsville
|
39cfs |
Ocmulgee River At Hawkinsville
|
2570cfs |
Oconee River Near Mount Vernon
|
2230cfs |
Oconee River At Dublin
|
2420cfs |
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.
Watkins Lake Dam
Hopewell Church Road Dodge County