Dickens Lake Dam, located in Hancock County, Georgia, was completed in 1960 and serves primarily for recreational purposes.
Wind
Humidity
This Earth dam, with a height of 30 feet and a length of 660 feet, holds a maximum storage capacity of 3,290 acre-feet of water from Sikes Creek. The dam's hydraulic height is measured at 23 feet, providing a surface area of 46 acres for recreational activities such as fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing in the Howell Grove Environs near the city.
Although the dam is privately owned and not regulated by the state, it has a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating. The last inspection conducted in 2001 deemed the structure in "Not Rated" condition. With an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, the dam has not been modified since its completion. The risk management measures, emergency action plans, and inundation maps for the dam are currently not updated or available, suggesting a need for improved safety protocols and preparedness in case of emergencies.
Despite its age and lack of recent assessments, Dickens Lake Dam remains a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers in Georgia. As climate change continues to impact water resources and infrastructure, ensuring the safety and maintenance of such dams is essential for the community's well-being and the preservation of the environment. Efforts to update risk assessments, emergency plans, and inspection protocols for the dam could help mitigate potential risks and enhance the overall resilience of this recreational water resource for future generations.
Year Completed |
1960 |
Dam Length |
660 |
Dam Height |
30 |
River Or Stream |
SIKES CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
46 |
Hydraulic Height |
23 |
Drainage Area |
6350 |
Nid Storage |
3290 |
Structural Height |
23 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
30 |
Oconee River At Milledgeville
|
635cfs |
Little River Near Eatonton
|
121cfs |
Murder Creek Below Eatonton
|
70cfs |
Oconee River At Avant Mine
|
846cfs |
Kettle Creek Near Washington
|
9cfs |
Little River Near Washington
|
85cfs |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Lawrence Shoals
|
||
Oconee Springs County Park
|
||
Old Salem
|