Powell Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Located in Oak Park, Georgia, Powell Lake Dam, also known as Greg Powell Dam, is a private earth dam primarily used for irrigation purposes.


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Summary

Built in 2006 by the NRCS, this dam stands at 18 feet high with a storage capacity of 104 acre-feet and a surface area of 9.9 acres. With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, Powell Lake Dam has not been rated for its condition but undergoes inspections every 5 years to ensure its safety.

Despite being a private structure, Powell Lake Dam is not regulated by the state of Georgia and does not require state permitting or enforcement. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, making it a key component in providing water for irrigation in the surrounding area. The dam's location in Emanuel County adds to its significance in managing water resources and addressing the impacts of climate change on the local ecosystem.

Powell Lake Dam serves as a vital infrastructure for water management in the region, contributing to the enhancement of agricultural practices and water supply reliability. With its strategic design and purposeful construction, this dam symbolizes the intersection of human ingenuity and environmental stewardship, highlighting the importance of sustainable water resource management in the face of evolving climate challenges.

Year Completed

2006

Dam Length

1280

Dam Height

18

River Or Stream

unknown

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

9.9

Hydraulic Height

16

Drainage Area

138.24

Nid Storage

104

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

18
       
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.