Upper Carmichael Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Upper Carmichael Lake Dam, located in Morgan, Georgia, is a private recreational dam designed by Weyman Carmichael.


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Summary

Standing at 21 feet tall and spanning 300 feet in length, this earth dam provides a storage capacity of 142 acre-feet with a surface area of 19 acres. While the dam has an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, its hazard potential is rated as low, with a moderate risk assessment.

Despite being state-jurisdiction regulated, Upper Carmichael Lake Dam has not undergone state permitting or enforcement. The last inspection in 1989 deemed its condition as not rated, with an inspection frequency of every five years. The dam's primary purpose is for recreation, with no associated structures and no federal agency involvement in funding, construction, or regulation. With a risk management plan in place, the dam's risk character is summarized as moderate, making it a noteworthy site for water resource and climate enthusiasts in the region.

Overall, Upper Carmichael Lake Dam offers a picturesque setting for recreational activities while maintaining a low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment. Its historical significance as a private earth dam designed by Weyman Carmichael adds to its allure, attracting visitors interested in water resource management and climate resilience. As a state-regulated structure with a focus on recreation, the dam provides a unique opportunity for exploration and study in the field of water resources and climate adaptation.

Dam Length

300

Dam Height

21

River Or Stream

UNKNOWN

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

19

Nid Storage

142

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

21
       
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.
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Area Campgrounds