Miller Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Miller Lake Dam, located in Decatur, Georgia, is a private-owned structure with a primary purpose that is not specified.


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Summary

Designed by Randy Odum, this earth dam stands at a height of 23 feet and has a storage capacity of 247 acre-feet. The dam, situated on Miller Branch, is classified as a low hazard potential structure with a moderate risk assessment rating.

Despite not being state regulated or permitted, Miller Lake Dam undergoes regular inspections with a frequency of every 5 years to ensure its structural integrity. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, with no associated locks. The condition assessment of the dam is currently not rated, and emergency preparedness measures such as an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) are not documented.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Miller Lake Dam presents an interesting case study of a privately-owned earth dam in Georgia with a unique design and risk profile. With its moderate risk assessment and low hazard potential, this structure highlights the importance of regular inspections and emergency preparedness in maintaining the safety and integrity of dams in the face of changing environmental conditions. Further research and analysis of Miller Lake Dam could provide valuable insights into the management and regulation of similar structures in the region.

Dam Height

23

River Or Stream

MILLER BRANCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

15

Nid Storage

247

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

23
       
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.