Vernon Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Columbia, Georgia, the Vernon Pond Dam stands as a private-owned structure primarily used for recreation.


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Summary

With a height of 29 feet and a storage capacity of 25 acre-feet, this earth dam plays a crucial role in providing recreational opportunities for water enthusiasts in the area. Despite being uncontrolled, the dam has been assessed as having a high hazard potential but remains in satisfactory condition as of the last inspection in February 2017.

Managed by the Georgia-SAFE DAMS Program, the Vernon Pond Dam is subject to state regulations, inspections, and enforcement to ensure its safety and functionality. Its risk assessment categorizes it as moderate, indicating the need for ongoing monitoring and potential risk management measures. With a designated emergency action plan and contacts in place, the dam is prepared to respond to any unforeseen events that may arise, providing a sense of security for both the surrounding community and water resource enthusiasts who frequent the area.

As a vital component of the local water infrastructure, the Vernon Pond Dam serves as a focal point for recreational activities while also posing challenges in terms of risk management and safety. Its location within the Charleston District and under the oversight of state regulatory agencies underscores the importance of maintaining and monitoring this structure to ensure the continued enjoyment and safety of all who benefit from its presence.

Dam Height

29

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Nid Storage

25

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

29
       
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.