Ellis Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Ellis Lake Dam, located in Dallas, Georgia, was completed in 1969 and serves as a vital structure for recreational purposes.


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Summary

Standing at a height of 25.1 feet with a hydraulic height of 23.2 feet, the dam boasts a normal storage capacity of 169.3 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 280.7 acre-feet. With a surface area of 18.4 acres and a drainage area of 140 acres, Ellis Lake Dam plays a crucial role in providing water resources for the surrounding community.

While the dam's hazard potential is rated low and its condition remains unrated, it undergoes inspections every five years to ensure its structural integrity. Despite being privately owned, the dam is within state jurisdiction and is subject to state inspections. Furthermore, Ellis Lake Dam operates uncontrolled spillways and outlet gates, highlighting the need for consistent monitoring and maintenance to mitigate potential risks. Overall, the dam presents a moderate risk level (3) and serves as a valuable asset for water resource and climate enthusiasts in the region.

In the event of an emergency, the dam's preparedness measures, such as an Emergency Action Plan (EAP), remain undisclosed. However, with no reported incidents and a moderate risk assessment, Ellis Lake Dam stands as a reliable structure that contributes to the local ecosystem and community. Its strategic location, design, and purpose for recreation underscore the importance of sustainable management and proactive monitoring to ensure the safety and longevity of this essential water resource infrastructure.

Year Completed

1969

Dam Length

669

Dam Height

25.1

River Or Stream

Unknown

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

18.4

Hydraulic Height

23.2

Drainage Area

140

Nid Storage

280.7

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

25
       
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.