Lee & Gordon Mill Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Lee & Gordon Mill Dam, located in Chickamauga, Georgia, stands as a historic structure completed in 1836.


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Summary

With a primary purpose categorized as "Other," this masonry dam on the West Chickamauga River boasts a height of 12.5 feet and a storage capacity of 92 acre-feet. The dam, with a unique buttress core design, spans 65 feet in length and covers a surface area of 23 acres.

Despite being labeled as "Undetermined" in terms of hazard potential and "Not Rated" for condition assessment, Lee & Gordon Mill Dam presents a moderate risk level of 3. It operates with uncontrolled spillways and outlets, indicating a need for further evaluation of its safety measures. The dam, owned by a local government entity, serves as a captivating reminder of Georgia's rich water resource history, attracting climate and water enthusiasts alike with its intriguing historical and structural features.

As climate change continues to impact water resources, Lee & Gordon Mill Dam stands as a tangible representation of the delicate balance between human development and environmental sustainability. With its unique design and historical significance, this masonry dam serves as a focal point for discussions on risk management, emergency preparedness, and the importance of maintaining and preserving our water infrastructure in the face of evolving climate challenges.

Year Completed

1836

Dam Length

65

Dam Height

12.5

River Or Stream

West Chickamauga

Primary Dam Type

Masonry

Surface Area

23

Hydraulic Height

4

Nid Storage

92

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Undetermined

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

13
       
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.