Brown Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Grimaude Lake Dam Parsons Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Brown Lake Dam, located in the picturesque Granite Hill Environs of Oglethorpe, Georgia, is a private Earth dam primarily used for recreational purposes.
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Summary
Standing at a height of 14 feet and spanning a length of 540 feet, this dam was completed in 1950 and boasts a storage capacity of 250 acre-feet. With a normal storage level of 160 acre-feet and a surface area of 32 acres, Brown Lake Dam plays a vital role in the local community's water resource management.
Despite its low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, Brown Lake Dam has not been rated for its condition. The last inspection in 2001 revealed that the dam was in satisfactory condition, but without a recent assessment, its safety remains somewhat uncertain. Additionally, the dam's emergency action plan and risk management measures are not clearly defined, leaving room for improvement in ensuring the safety and security of the surrounding area in case of a potential breach.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Brown Lake Dam presents an intriguing case study in the intersection of recreational infrastructure and water management. As efforts continue to enhance the dam's safety features and risk assessment protocols, it serves as a reminder of the critical role that such structures play in maintaining a balance between human recreation and environmental conservation in the face of changing climate patterns.
Year Completed |
1950 |
Dam Length |
540 |
Dam Height |
14 |
River Or Stream |
UNKNOWN |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
32 |
Hydraulic Height |
13 |
Drainage Area |
1830 |
Nid Storage |
250 |
Structural Height |
13 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
14 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
South Fork Broad River At Carlton
|
87cfs |
Broad River Near Bell
|
697cfs |
Broad River Above Carlton
|
338cfs |
Beaverdam Creek Ab Elberton Ga
|
38cfs |
Kettle Creek Near Washington
|
6cfs |
Little River Near Washington
|
49cfs |
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.
Pioneer 2
Pioneer 3
Pioneer 1
Brown Lake Dam