Unicoi State Park Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Unicoi State Park Lake Dam, located in White, Georgia, was completed in 1955 and stands at a height of 75 feet with a hydraulic height of 16 feet.


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Summary

The dam primarily serves the purpose of recreation and holds a normal storage capacity of 378 acre-feet in its 49-acre surface area. The dam is situated on Smith Creek and is owned and regulated by the State of Georgia through the GA-SAFE DAMS PROGRAM, ensuring regular inspections and enforcement to maintain its satisfactory condition.

With a high hazard potential but moderate risk assessment, Unicoi State Park Lake Dam poses a significant but manageable risk to the surrounding area. The dam's uncontrolled spillway type and outlet gates indicate a need for careful monitoring and emergency preparedness, despite its overall satisfactory condition. The Department of Transportation was the designer of this earth dam on rock foundations, providing essential recreational opportunities while safeguarding against potential hazards.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Unicoi State Park Lake Dam represents a vital piece of Georgia's infrastructure, offering both recreational enjoyment and a crucial role in water management. As part of the state's commitment to dam safety, regular inspections and enforcement ensure the dam's continued functionality and safety for both residents and visitors. With its picturesque location and important regulatory oversight, Unicoi State Park Lake Dam is a noteworthy site for those interested in the intersection of water resources, climate resilience, and public safety.

Year Completed

1955

Dam Length

780

Dam Height

75

River Or Stream

Smith creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

49

Hydraulic Height

16

Drainage Area

8.6

Nid Storage

2326

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

75
       
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.