Shaw Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Shaw Lake Dam, located in Gilmer, Georgia, is a privately owned structure that was completed in 1971 by the Soil Conservation Service.


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Summary

This earth dam, with a height of 30 feet and a length of 180 feet, serves multiple purposes including tailings containment and other activities. It holds a storage capacity of 27.9 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 1.4 acres, impacting the Bryant Creek watershed with a drainage area of 203 square miles.

Despite its significant impact on the local hydrology, Shaw Lake Dam has been rated with a high hazard potential and poor condition assessment. The dam is regulated by the Georgia Safe Dams Program and undergoes state inspections and enforcement to ensure public safety. With a moderate risk assessment rating, the dam is in need of risk management measures to mitigate potential hazards and safeguard the surrounding community in Elijay. As a key feature in water resource management, Shaw Lake Dam presents a unique opportunity for climate enthusiasts to explore the intersection of infrastructure, environmental stewardship, and public safety.

Year Completed

1971

Dam Length

180

Dam Height

30

River Or Stream

Bryant Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

1.4

Drainage Area

203

Nid Storage

27.9

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

30
       
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.