Cottonridge Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Cottonridge Lake Dam, located in Bleckley, Georgia, was completed in 1997 and serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock, and small fish pond.


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Summary

Owned privately, this earth dam stands at a height of 15 feet and has a length of 950 feet, with a storage capacity of 281 acre-feet. The dam overlooks the picturesque Reedy Creek and is regulated by the state, with inspections conducted every 5 years to ensure its structural integrity.

Despite its low hazard potential, Cottonridge Lake Dam poses a moderate risk (3) requiring risk management measures. The dam's spillway type is uncontrolled, and it has uncontrolled outlet gates, adding to the overall risk assessment. The condition of the dam is currently not rated, and there are no emergency action plans in place as of the last update in 2004. With its scenic location and importance for water resource management, Cottonridge Lake Dam stands as a significant structure in the region for both residents and climate enthusiasts alike.

As a key feature in the Savannah District, Cottonridge Lake Dam plays a vital role in maintaining water levels and protecting against hazards in the area. With its foundation type listed as unlisted/unknown and a moderate risk assessment, there is a need for continued monitoring and maintenance to ensure the dam's longevity and safety. Climate enthusiasts can appreciate the importance of this structure in managing water resources and its impact on the local ecosystem, making it a site of interest for those passionate about climate resilience and water conservation efforts.

Year Completed

1997

Dam Length

950

Dam Height

15

River Or Stream

REEDY CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

25

Nid Storage

281

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

15
       
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.