Van Orsdal Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Van Orsdal Lake Dam, located in Fannin, Georgia, is a privately owned structure constructed in 1970 by the Natural Resources Conservation Service.
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Summary
The dam serves a primary purpose of recreation, providing a serene setting for water enthusiasts to enjoy. Standing at a height of 31 feet with a hydraulic height of 25 feet, the dam creates a reservoir with a storage capacity of 113 acre-feet and a surface area of 7 acres on the Black Ankle Creek.
Despite its low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, Van Orsdal Lake Dam has not been rated for its condition assessment. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, with inspections conducted every five years. The surrounding area offers a picturesque environment for outdoor activities, attracting visitors to its recreational opportunities. With its stable structure and historical significance, the dam continues to be a vital part of the water resource landscape in Georgia.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts will appreciate the role Van Orsdal Lake Dam plays in providing a recreational outlet for residents and visitors alike. With its earth dam type and buttress core, the structure showcases innovative engineering techniques from its time of construction. While the dam may not be regulated by the state, its presence adds to the cultural and environmental richness of the region. As climate change continues to impact water resources, understanding and preserving structures like Van Orsdal Lake Dam becomes increasingly important for future generations.
Year Completed |
1970 |
Dam Length |
300 |
Dam Height |
31 |
River Or Stream |
BLACK ANKLE CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
7 |
Hydraulic Height |
25 |
Nid Storage |
113 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
31 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Toccoa River Near Dial
|
259cfs |
Cartecay River Near Ellijay
|
166cfs |
Coosawattee River Near Ellijay
|
276cfs |
Fausett Creek Near Talking Rock
|
9cfs |
Nottely River Near Blairsville
|
87cfs |
Ocoee River At Copperhill
|
288cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Toccoa River Sandy Bottoms Recreation Area
Hawk Mountain (Base) Campsite
Deep Hole
Deep Hole Recreation Area
Frank Gross
Frank Gross Recreation Area
Van Orsdal Lake Dam