Watson Road Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Watson Road Lake Dam in Forsyth, Georgia is a privately owned structure regulated by the GA-SAFE DAMS PROGRAM.


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Summary

This Earth-type dam stands at 28 feet high and has a maximum storage capacity of 33 acre-feet. With a surface area of 2 acres and a hazard potential rated as high, this dam is deemed to be in poor condition as of the last inspection in January 2016. Despite its moderate risk assessment rating, the dam lacks certain emergency preparedness measures such as an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) and updated contact information.

Located in the Mobile District, Watson Road Lake Dam serves as a critical water resource for the surrounding area. The dam's purpose, design, and associated structures remain unspecified in the available data. However, its importance in water storage and management is evident through its state-regulated status and inspection frequency of once every two years. The dam's presence in the region highlights the intersection of water resource management and climate resilience, as it embodies both the potential benefits and risks associated with man-made structures in a changing climate.

As an Earth-type dam with an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, Watson Road Lake Dam represents a complex engineering feat with significant implications for water flow and flood management in the region. The dam's condition, hazard potential, and risk assessment underscore the importance of regular inspections, maintenance, and emergency preparedness to ensure the safety and functionality of this vital water resource infrastructure. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Watson Road Lake Dam serves as a case study in the ongoing challenges and opportunities of managing water resources in a dynamic and uncertain climate.

Dam Height

28

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

2

Nid Storage

33

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

28
       
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.