Garrard Irrigation Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Reville Lake Dam Jones Pond Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Garrard Irrigation Lake Dam, located in Wilkes, Georgia, is a privately-owned structure designed by the Soil Conservation Service (SCS).
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Summary
This earth dam, with a height of 27 feet and a maximum storage capacity of 38 acre-feet, serves the primary purpose of irrigation. Situated on Upton Creek, the dam has a low hazard potential and is not currently rated for its condition.
Despite being state-jurisdictional, Garrard Irrigation Lake Dam is not regulated or permitted by the state of Georgia. The last inspection of the dam occurred in September 2016, with an inspection frequency of every 5 years. The dam's spillway is uncontrolled, and it features uncontrolled outlet gates as well. With a moderate risk assessment rating of 3, there are currently no Emergency Action Plans (EAP) in place for the dam.
Overall, Garrard Irrigation Lake Dam presents an interesting case study for water resource and climate enthusiasts. With its unique design features and lack of state regulation, this structure provides insight into the complexities of managing water resources in a private capacity. Further research and monitoring of the dam's condition and risk assessment may offer valuable lessons for future dam management practices and policies.
Dam Height |
27 |
River Or Stream |
UPTON CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Nid Storage |
38 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
27 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Little River Near Washington
|
85cfs |
Kettle Creek Near Washington
|
9cfs |
Broad River Near Bell
|
906cfs |
Little River Near Mt. Carmel
|
83cfs |
Stevens Creek Near Modoc
|
149cfs |
South Fork Broad River At Carlton
|
87cfs |
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.
Garrard Irrigation Lake Dam