Lake Kathy Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Lake Kathy Dam, located in Whitfield, Georgia, stands as a vital structure for recreation enthusiasts and climate activists alike.
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Summary
Built in 1950, this privately-owned Earth dam stands at a height of 17 feet and boasts a storage capacity of 291 acre-feet. With a primary purpose of recreation, the dam offers a serene escape for visitors seeking to enjoy the 25-acre surface area of Lake Kathy.
Despite its scenic appeal, Lake Kathy Dam poses a high hazard potential due to its poor condition assessment as of March 2017. The dam's uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates raise concerns for safety and necessitate regular inspections. The Georgia-Safe Dams Program regulates this structure, ensuring compliance with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement protocols to mitigate risks and protect surrounding communities.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts monitor the condition of Lake Kathy Dam, the need for proactive risk management measures becomes evident. With a moderate risk assessment rating, there is a call to action to enhance emergency preparedness and safety protocols. By collaborating with state regulators and stakeholders, efforts can be made to improve the dam's condition and ensure its long-term sustainability, safeguarding both the environment and the local community.
Year Completed |
1950 |
Dam Length |
810 |
Dam Height |
17 |
River Or Stream |
WARD BRANCH |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
25 |
Nid Storage |
291 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
17 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Mill Creek At Dalton
|
20cfs |
Conasauga River Near Eton
|
119cfs |
South Chickamauga Creek Near Chickamauga
|
178cfs |
Mill Creek Near Crandall
|
4cfs |
Conasauga River At Tilton
|
222cfs |
Holly Creek Near Chatsworth
|
20cfs |
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.
Lake Kathy Dam