Lake Oconee Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lake Oconee Dam, located in Georgia, was completed in 1957 and serves primarily for recreation purposes.


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Summary

The dam, designed by T. Harrison, is an earth dam with a height of 37 feet and a length of 450 feet, providing a storage capacity of 731 acre-feet. The reservoir created by the dam covers a surface area of 39 acres and has a normal storage level of 558 acre-feet.

Despite being privately owned, Lake Oconee Dam is subject to state inspection, with the last assessment conducted in November 1992. The dam has a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating. While it is unregulated by the state, it is within state jurisdiction. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, with no associated structures or locks. The risk management measures and emergency preparedness plan for the dam are currently not rated or assessed.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts visiting Lake Oconee Dam can appreciate its contribution to the local recreational activities and the surrounding environment. The dam's design and construction serve as a testament to the importance of managing water resources responsibly and ensuring the safety and sustainability of such structures in the face of changing climate conditions. As a key feature in the region, Lake Oconee Dam stands as both a functional piece of infrastructure and a recreational asset for the community to enjoy.

Year Completed

1957

Dam Length

450

Dam Height

37

River Or Stream

UNKNOWN

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

39

Nid Storage

731

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

37
       
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.