Bell's Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Wilkes Lake Dam Wildwood Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Bell's Lake Dam, located in Watkinsville, Georgia, was completed in 1957 by the Natural Resources Conservation Service and serves as a recreational spot for water resource and climate enthusiasts.
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Summary
This private earth dam, standing at a height of 20 feet and stretching 351 feet in length, holds a storage capacity of 180 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 15 acres. Despite being uncontrolled, the spillway type of the dam is listed as 'Uncontrolled', with a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating.
The dam, built on Porters Creek, falls under state jurisdiction but is not regulated by the state authorities. While it undergoes periodic state inspections, its condition has not been rated, and emergency action plans have not been prepared or updated. The risk management measures and risk character summary for Bell's Lake Dam are unspecified, but its overall risk assessment places it at a moderate level. The dam's association with the Savannah District of the US Army Corps of Engineers is noted, although it is not directly managed by the Corps.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts seeking recreational opportunities, Bell's Lake Dam offers a serene location within Oconee County, Georgia. With its historical significance dating back to the mid-20th century, the dam provides a tranquil setting for outdoor activities and nature appreciation. While the dam's operational and safety protocols may require further clarification, its role as a low-hazard structure with moderate risk underscores the importance of continuous monitoring and management in ensuring the safety of the surrounding community and environment.
Year Completed |
1957 |
Dam Length |
351 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
PORTERS CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
15 |
Drainage Area |
500 |
Nid Storage |
180 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
20 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Apalachee River Near Bostwick
|
115cfs |
Middle Oconee River Near Athens
|
229cfs |
North Oconee River At College St
|
121cfs |
Oconee River Near Penfield
|
527cfs |
Middle Oconee River Near Arcade
|
198cfs |
Alcovy River Above Covington
|
103cfs |
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.
Bell's Lake Dam