Burch Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Burch Lake Dam, located in Dodge County, Georgia, was completed in 1955 and stands at a height of 22 feet, with a primary purpose of recreation.
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Summary
This earth dam on Cross Creek has a storage capacity of 268 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 24 acres. While the dam has a low hazard potential, its risk assessment is moderate, indicating the need for ongoing monitoring and maintenance.
Despite being privately owned, Burch Lake Dam falls under state jurisdiction and is subject to regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity and safety. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, with an inspection frequency of 5 years. The last inspection was conducted in October 2017, and the dam is currently rated as "Not Rated" in terms of its condition assessment.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Burch Lake Dam offers a unique opportunity to explore the intersection of human-made infrastructure and natural ecosystems. With its recreational focus and moderate risk assessment, the dam serves as a case study for balancing environmental and safety considerations in dam management. As climate change continues to impact water resources, understanding the maintenance and regulation of structures like Burch Lake Dam will be crucial for ensuring the sustainability of our water systems.
Year Completed |
1955 |
Dam Length |
535 |
Dam Height |
22 |
River Or Stream |
CROSS CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
24 |
Hydraulic Height |
19 |
Drainage Area |
665 |
Nid Storage |
268 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
22 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Ocmulgee River At Hawkinsville
|
2110cfs |
Tucsawhatchee Creek Near Hawkinsville
|
29cfs |
Turnpike Creek Near Mcrae
|
11cfs |
Oconee River At Dublin
|
1070cfs |
Oconee River Near Mount Vernon
|
1340cfs |
Turkey Creek At Byromville
|
12cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Burch Lake Dam