Pippen Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Pippen Lake Dam, located in Habersham, Georgia, is a privately-owned earth dam with a height of 40 feet and a storage capacity of 57 acre-feet.


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Summary

The dam, designed by ED ADAMS, serves the primary purpose of water storage and has a low hazard potential. It is not regulated by the state but is subject to regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity and safety.

Although the dam has an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, its risk assessment is moderate, indicating the need for ongoing monitoring and management measures. Despite its condition being labeled as "Not Rated," the dam has not undergone any recent modifications or assessments. The last inspection was conducted in August 2017, with a recommended inspection frequency of every 5 years to assess any potential risks or hazards.

With its picturesque location and importance in water resource management, Pippen Lake Dam is a notable structure for both water resource and climate enthusiasts. As it continues to play a crucial role in the local ecosystem and water supply, ensuring its safety and maintenance remains a priority for all stakeholders involved in its operation and regulation.

Dam Height

40

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

4

Nid Storage

57

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

40
       
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.