Blackburn State Park Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Blackburn State Park Lake Dam, also known as Blackburn Park, is a local government-owned structure located in Lumpkin, Georgia.


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Summary

Built in 1970 by the Soil Conservation Service (SCS), this earth dam stands at a height of 39 feet and spans 225 feet in length. The dam's primary purpose is for recreation, providing a surface area of 5 acres and a storage capacity of 83 acre-feet.

Despite its low hazard potential, Blackburn State Park Lake Dam is subject to periodic state inspections to ensure its structural integrity and safety. With a moderate risk assessment rating, the dam is equipped with uncontrolled spillways and outlet gates. Although it is not regulated by the state, the dam is monitored for potential risks, with emergency response plans in place to mitigate any unforeseen events.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Blackburn State Park Lake Dam offers a fascinating example of a recreation-focused earth dam in Georgia. Its design by the SCS and lack of state regulation present unique considerations for dam safety and risk management. As a significant feature of Blackburn Park, this dam serves as both a recreational amenity and a critical infrastructure element worth exploring and understanding in the context of water resource management and climate resilience.

Year Completed

1970

Dam Length

225

Dam Height

39

River Or Stream

UNKNOWN

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

5

Drainage Area

110

Nid Storage

83

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

39
       
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.