Patten Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Lake Irma Dam Banks Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Patten Lake Dam, located in Lanier, Georgia, is a private earth dam on the Mill Branch river, with a height of 23 feet and a length of 686 feet.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
The dam has a storage capacity of 261 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 55 acre-feet. Although the dam is uncontrolled, it has a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating.
Designed by George Rice of the NRCS, Patten Lake Dam is subject to state jurisdiction and inspection, with the last inspection conducted in March 2016. Despite its age and condition assessment of "Not Rated," the dam remains a crucial structure for water resource management in the area. With its picturesque surroundings and vital role in water storage and management, Patten Lake Dam serves as a significant landmark for water resource and climate enthusiasts in the region.
As a private dam in Georgia, Patten Lake Dam stands as a testament to engineering ingenuity and the importance of proper maintenance and oversight in ensuring the safety and functionality of water infrastructure. With its uncontrolled spillway and moderate risk assessment, the dam serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between water resource management and environmental protection. For those passionate about water resources and climate issues, Patten Lake Dam offers a unique opportunity to study the intersection of human infrastructure with natural ecosystems.
Dam Length |
686 |
Dam Height |
23 |
River Or Stream |
MILL BRANCH |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
10 |
Nid Storage |
261 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
23 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Patten Lake Dam