Cantrell Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Cantrell Lake Dam, also known as Brown's Lake Dam, is a privately owned structure located in Fannin, Georgia, near the city of Oasis.


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Summary

Built in 1970 by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, this earth dam stands at a height of 33 feet and has a primary purpose of recreation, offering a storage capacity of 31.3 acre-feet and a surface area of 2 acres. The dam is designed with an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, with a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating.

Situated on Higdon Creek, Cantrell Lake Dam provides a picturesque recreational area for water resource and climate enthusiasts to enjoy. The dam has not been state regulated or permitted, but is subject to state inspection. Despite its age, the dam's condition assessment remains unrated, and it has not undergone any recent modifications or emergency action plan preparations. The surrounding area offers a tranquil setting for outdoor activities, making it a popular destination for visitors seeking to connect with nature and explore the beauty of Georgia's water resources.

Overall, Cantrell Lake Dam serves as a vital part of the local landscape, offering both recreational opportunities and a source of natural beauty. With its scenic location and low hazard potential, this earth dam continues to provide a safe and enjoyable environment for visitors to appreciate the importance of water conservation and the role of dams in managing and preserving water resources. Whether you're a climate enthusiast or simply looking for a peaceful retreat, Cantrell Lake Dam is sure to captivate and inspire all who visit.

Year Completed

1970

Dam Length

270

Dam Height

33

River Or Stream

HIGDON CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

2

Hydraulic Height

23

Nid Storage

31.3

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

33
       
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.