Bankston Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Bankston Lake Dam, located in Macon, Georgia, was completed in 1965 and serves as a recreational site for water enthusiasts in the area.


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Summary

This privately-owned Earth dam stands at a height of 22 feet and spans 340 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 100 acre-feet. The dam is primarily used for recreation purposes, offering a surface area of 10 acres for activities such as fishing, boating, and wildlife observation.

Despite being categorized as having a low hazard potential, the dam is subject to periodic inspections, with the last one conducted in June 2015. The condition assessment of the dam is currently listed as "Not Rated," indicating a need for further evaluation. The risk assessment for Bankston Lake Dam is moderate, with measures in place to manage potential risks associated with the structure. While the dam does not fall under the jurisdiction of federal agencies, state regulators oversee its inspection and enforcement to ensure public safety.

Overall, Bankston Lake Dam presents an intriguing blend of recreational opportunities and structural considerations for water resource and climate enthusiasts. With its picturesque location and historical significance, this dam offers a unique perspective on the intersection of human development and natural water systems in the region. Despite its low hazard potential, ongoing assessments and risk management measures underscore the importance of maintaining the integrity of this essential water resource for future generations to enjoy.

Year Completed

1965

Dam Length

340

Dam Height

22

River Or Stream

UNKNOWN

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

10

Drainage Area

320

Nid Storage

100

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

22
       
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.