Howard Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Howard Lake Dam, located in LaFayette, Georgia, is a privately owned structure with a primary purpose of recreation.
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Summary
Built in 1955 by the Soil Conservation Service (SCS), this earth dam stands at a height of 16.7 feet and spans a length of 534 feet, creating a reservoir with a normal storage capacity of 159.8 acre-feet. Situated on Town Creek in Walker County, the dam's low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment make it a key feature for water resource and climate enthusiasts in the area.
While the dam is not state regulated, it does undergo regular inspections, with the last one conducted in February 2018. The dam's spillway is uncontrolled, and its outlet gates are also uncontrolled, contributing to its recreational use for activities such as fishing, boating, and wildlife observation. Despite not being rated for condition assessment, Howard Lake Dam remains a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking to enjoy the natural beauty of Georgia's landscape while also benefiting from the water resources it provides.
With its historical significance dating back to the mid-20th century, Howard Lake Dam continues to serve as a vital recreational and environmental asset for the local community. Its presence not only enhances the region's water resources but also offers a tranquil setting for visitors to appreciate and engage with nature. As climate change impacts water availability and quality, the preservation and proper management of structures like Howard Lake Dam are crucial for sustaining ecosystems and ensuring the well-being of both people and wildlife in the area.
Year Completed |
1955 |
Dam Length |
534 |
Dam Height |
16.7 |
River Or Stream |
Town Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
34 |
Hydraulic Height |
14.6 |
Nid Storage |
391.2 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
17 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Lookout Creek Near New England
|
26cfs |
Mill Creek At Dalton
|
20cfs |
South Chickamauga Creek Near Chickamauga
|
178cfs |
Conasauga River At Tilton
|
222cfs |
Chattooga River At Summerville
|
94cfs |
Oostanaula River At Resaca
|
845cfs |
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.
Howard Lake Dam