Ford Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Ford Lake Dam, located in Sylvester, Georgia, serves as a vital structure for recreational purposes along the Bay Branch river.
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Summary
Built with an earth core type and buttress foundation, the dam stands at a height of 15.1 feet, with a hydraulic height of 14.2 feet. The dam boasts a storage capacity of 270 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 26 acres, providing ample opportunities for outdoor activities.
While the dam's hazard potential is rated as low, its risk assessment indicates a moderate level of risk, with a DSAC assigned date yet to be determined. The last inspection conducted in July 2016 revealed that the dam's condition was not rated, highlighting the need for ongoing monitoring and maintenance. With a moderate risk profile and a history of inspections every five years, Ford Lake Dam remains a crucial asset for water resource and climate enthusiasts in Worth County, Georgia.
As an integral part of the local landscape, Ford Lake Dam plays a significant role in water management and recreation in the area. Despite being privately owned and not state-regulated, the dam's impact on the surrounding environment and community is undeniable. With its uncontrolled spillway and uncontrolled outlet gates, the dam continues to provide a safe and enjoyable experience for visitors while maintaining a cautious approach to risk management.
Dam Length |
840 |
Dam Height |
15.1 |
River Or Stream |
BAY BRANCH |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
26 |
Hydraulic Height |
14.2 |
Drainage Area |
1900 |
Nid Storage |
270 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
15 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Flint River At Albany
|
3510cfs |
Little R At Tifton Worth Co Line Rd
|
0cfs |
Flint River At Ga 32
|
4340cfs |
Flint River At Newton
|
4380cfs |
Muckalee Creek At Ga 195
|
419cfs |
Little River Near Adel
|
3cfs |
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.
Ford Lake Dam