Maxwell Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Maxwell Lake Dam, located in Decatur, Georgia, was completed in 1994 and stands at a height of 18.3 meters.


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Summary

This private dam, primarily used for water storage, has a normal storage capacity of 52.5 million gallons and a maximum storage of 78 million gallons. The dam is classified as a Buttress type structure with an uncontrolled spillway.

Despite its low hazard potential, Maxwell Lake Dam presents a moderate risk, with a condition assessment currently not rated. The dam has not been inspected or assessed in recent years, and emergency preparedness measures such as an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) are not in place. While the dam's risk management measures and inundation maps are not specified, the overall risk level for Maxwell Lake Dam is considered moderate.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Maxwell Lake Dam offers a case study in the importance of regular inspections, maintenance, and emergency preparedness for infrastructure such as dams. The dam's location in Decatur, Georgia, underlines the critical role of proper management of water resources in mitigating risks and ensuring the safety of communities and ecosystems in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1994

Dam Length

375

Dam Height

18.3

Surface Area

7

Hydraulic Height

18.2

Nid Storage

78

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

18
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.