Butler Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Butler Lake Dam, also known as Kale Lake Dam and Majors Lake Dam, is a private structure located in Lumpkin, Georgia.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Built in 1972 by the Soil Conservation Service (SCS), this earth dam stands at a height of 32 feet and stretches 345 feet in length. Its primary purpose is for recreation, offering a surface area of 2 acres and a storage capacity of 35 acre-feet.

Situated on Peggy Branch in the Oakgrove Community, Butler Lake Dam is not regulated by the state but undergoes regular inspections every five years. Despite having a low hazard potential and being deemed in "Not Rated" condition, its risk assessment is moderate. With uncontrolled spillways and outlet gates, the dam presents a unique blend of natural beauty and engineering ingenuity for water resource and climate enthusiasts to appreciate and explore.

This dam serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between human intervention and natural forces, showcasing the importance of proper maintenance and risk management in safeguarding our water resources. As a private entity, Butler Lake Dam stands as a testament to the collaboration between individuals and government agencies in ensuring the safety and sustainability of our water infrastructure in Georgia's diverse landscape.

Year Completed

1972

Dam Length

345

Dam Height

32

River Or Stream

PEGGY BRANCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

2

Drainage Area

35

Nid Storage

35

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

32
       
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.