Little River Ws Str #15 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Little River WS Str #15, also known as Michael Lake Dam, is a state-owned structure located in Cherokee, Georgia, near the Stevens Cemetery Environs.


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Summary

Built in 1959 by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, this earth dam stands at a height of 23.2 feet with a hydraulic height of 21.5 feet. Its primary purpose is flood risk reduction, with a storage capacity of 485 acre-feet and a drainage area of 1211 acres.

The dam, classified as low hazard potential, has not been rated for its condition assessment. Despite being unregulated by the state, inspections are conducted every 5 years, with the last one taking place in April 2019. With a moderate risk assessment score of 3, there are no specific risk management measures or emergency action plans in place for this structure. Although its spillway and outlet gates are uncontrolled, the dam serves as a vital tool for flood risk mitigation in the region.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will find Little River WS Str #15 an interesting case study in dam infrastructure and flood control efforts. With its historical significance dating back to the late 1950s, this earth dam continues to play a crucial role in managing water flow and reducing flood risks in the area. The moderate risk assessment score highlights the importance of ongoing monitoring and potential improvements to ensure the safety and effectiveness of this key water resource management structure.

Year Completed

1959

Dam Length

360

Dam Height

23.2

River Or Stream

UNKNOWN

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

13.8

Hydraulic Height

21.5

Drainage Area

1211

Nid Storage

485

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

23
       
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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.