Ed Wheeler Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Craig Lanier Dam Brannen Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Ed Wheeler Dam, located on the Canoochee River in Claxton, Georgia, is a privately owned Earth dam with a height of 14 feet and a length of 657 feet.
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Summary
Designed by USDA/NRCS, the dam serves as a vital structure for water resource management in the region. With a maximum storage capacity of 66 acre-feet and a normal storage of 24 acre-feet, the dam plays a crucial role in regulating water flow and providing irrigation for agricultural purposes.
Despite its low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, Ed Wheeler Dam has not been rated for its condition assessment. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, emphasizing the importance of regular inspections and maintenance to ensure its structural integrity. While the dam has not been inspected for some time, its risk management measures and emergency action plan status remain unspecified, raising concerns about its readiness in case of a potential breach or failure.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts monitoring Ed Wheeler Dam should advocate for increased oversight and maintenance of this essential structure to mitigate potential risks and ensure its long-term functionality. Collaborative efforts between private owners, regulatory agencies, and the local community will be crucial in safeguarding the dam's integrity and preserving the water resources it manages for future generations. By prioritizing proactive measures and preparedness, stakeholders can help sustainably manage this vital water resource infrastructure in the face of evolving climate challenges.
Dam Length |
657 |
Dam Height |
14 |
River Or Stream |
CANOOCHEE RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
7 |
Hydraulic Height |
13 |
Nid Storage |
66 |
Structural Height |
13 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
14 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Canoochee River Near Claxton
|
16cfs |
Ohoopee River Near Reidsville
|
105cfs |
Ogeechee River At Rocky Ford Rd
|
557cfs |
Black Creek Near Blitchton
|
9cfs |
Altamaha River Near Baxley
|
3480cfs |
Ogeechee River Near Eden
|
545cfs |
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.
Ed Wheeler Dam