Hawthorne Irrigation Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

The Hawthorne Irrigation Pond Dam in Cairo, Georgia, is a privately owned structure designed by NRCS for the primary purpose of irrigation.


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Summary

Completed in 2006, this Earth dam stands at a height of 20.4 feet and has a hydraulic height of 19.6 feet, with a length of 390 feet. The dam has a storage capacity of 65 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 38 acre-feet and a surface area of 5 acres.

Despite being unlisted as a state-regulated structure, the Hawthorne Irrigation Pond Dam poses a low hazard potential with a moderate risk assessment rating. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, and its condition has not been formally assessed. The last recorded inspection was in November 2016, indicating a need for updated evaluations and risk management measures to ensure the safety and effectiveness of this essential water resource infrastructure.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts may be interested in the Hawthorne Irrigation Pond Dam as a significant component of the local irrigation system in Grady County, Georgia. With its unique design and operational features, this dam plays a crucial role in supporting agricultural activities in the region. As the dam continues to serve its primary purpose, there is a growing need for regular inspections, maintenance, and risk assessment to safeguard its structural integrity and functionality for the future.

Year Completed

2006

Dam Length

390

Dam Height

20.4

River Or Stream

unknown

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

5

Hydraulic Height

19.6

Nid Storage

65

Structural Height

19.6

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

20
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.