Hat Creek Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Hat Creek Lake Dam, located in Sycamore, Turner County, Georgia, is a private Earth dam primarily designed for recreation purposes.


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Summary

Standing at a height of 20.5 feet with a hydraulic height of 20 feet, this dam boasts a storage capacity of 479 acre-feet and a surface area of 25 acres. Despite being unlisted in terms of foundations, the dam serves as a key feature in the surrounding landscape, offering opportunities for water-based activities and wildlife habitat.

Managed by a private entity, Hat Creek Lake Dam has been inspected as recently as July 2015, with a moderate risk assessment indicating potential hazards that are yet to be fully determined. While the hazard potential remains undetermined, the dam's condition assessment is listed as "Not Rated," suggesting the need for ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure its continued safety and functionality. With an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, the dam remains a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts seeking to explore the intersection of human infrastructure and environmental conservation.

As a recreational structure within the Jacksonville District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, Hat Creek Lake Dam represents a unique blend of human ingenuity and natural beauty in the heart of Georgia. While its specific construction and design details remain unknown, its presence offers a valuable opportunity for individuals to appreciate the importance of sustainable water resource management and the impact of climate change on our built environment. Whether for leisurely activities or educational purposes, this dam serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between human needs and environmental stewardship in a changing world.

Dam Length

575

Dam Height

20.5

River Or Stream

unknown

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

25

Hydraulic Height

20

Nid Storage

479

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Undetermined

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

21
       
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.