Rainbow Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Rainbow Lake Dam, located in Gilmer, Georgia, is a private earth dam constructed in 1960 by designer Clark Rogers.


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Summary

The dam's primary purpose is for recreational use, with a height of 50 feet and a length of 500 feet, creating a reservoir with a storage capacity of 1695 acre-feet. The dam is situated on Davis Creek and is regulated by the Georgia Safe Dams Program, with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place to ensure its safety and compliance.

Despite its high hazard potential and poor condition assessment, Rainbow Lake Dam continues to be a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts seeking recreational activities such as boating, fishing, and swimming. The dam's moderate risk assessment indicates a level 3 risk, prompting the need for ongoing risk management measures to address any potential safety concerns. With the last inspection conducted in March 2016, stakeholders are advised to stay informed about any updates or changes related to the dam's condition and emergency preparedness plans.

As a key feature in the Nashville District and with Congressman Doug Collins representing the area, Rainbow Lake Dam plays a vital role in water resource management and climate considerations. Its location in Ollie, Georgia, highlights the importance of maintaining and monitoring dams for both safety and environmental sustainability. Water resource and climate enthusiasts are encouraged to stay engaged with the management and upkeep of Rainbow Lake Dam to ensure its continued enjoyment and protection for future generations.

Year Completed

1960

Dam Length

500

Dam Height

50

River Or Stream

DAVIS CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

76

Nid Storage

1695

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

50
       
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.