Sawyer Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Sawyer Lake Dam, located in Macon, Georgia, was completed in 1958 and serves as a recreational site for water and climate enthusiasts.


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Summary

This private earth dam, standing at a height of 14 feet and with a hydraulic height of 13.5 feet, creates a serene lake environment for visitors to enjoy. The dam has a storage capacity of 74 acre-feet and covers an area of 8 acres, providing a tranquil setting for outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, and hiking.

Despite being categorized as having a low hazard potential, the dam's condition has not been rated since its last inspection in 1984. With an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, the risk assessment for Sawyer Lake Dam is moderate. While it may not be under state regulation, the dam still plays a crucial role in maintaining the ecological balance of the surrounding Swift Creek. Enthusiasts of water resources and climate change can appreciate the beauty and functionality of Sawyer Lake Dam, while also recognizing the importance of proper maintenance and risk management to ensure its continued safety and enjoyment for future generations.

Year Completed

1958

Dam Length

450

Dam Height

14

River Or Stream

SWIFT CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

8

Hydraulic Height

13.5

Nid Storage

74

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

14
       
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.