Joy Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Joy Lake Dam, located in Houston, Georgia, was completed in 1956 and stands at a height of 11 feet, with a length of 855 feet.


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Summary

This earth dam, primarily designed for recreation purposes, holds a storage capacity of 727 acre-feet and spans a surface area of 112 acres along Mossy Creek. Despite being privately owned, the dam is regulated and inspected by the state, ensuring its safety and compliance with environmental standards.

With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment, Joy Lake Dam poses minimal danger to surrounding communities. Although its condition is currently not rated, regular inspections take place every five years to monitor its structural integrity and safety measures. The dam's uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates contribute to its overall risk management strategy, while its buttress core design further enhances its stability and resilience to potential flooding events.

As a key feature in the Houston Lake environs, Joy Lake Dam offers recreational opportunities for local residents and visitors alike. Its historical significance and ecological impact on the surrounding area make it an important resource for water enthusiasts and climate advocates. With its picturesque setting and tranquil waters, the dam serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between human development and environmental conservation in the face of changing climate patterns.

Year Completed

1956

Dam Length

855

Dam Height

11

River Or Stream

MOSSY CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

112

Nid Storage

727

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

11
       
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.