Takela Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Takela Lake Dam, located in Fairmont, Georgia, was completed in 1941 and serves as a recreational spot for water resource and climate enthusiasts.


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Summary

The dam, with a height of 16.5 feet and a length of 210 feet, holds a storage capacity of 104.7 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 8.3 acres. The dam is primarily of Earth type with a Buttress core, and overlooks the Scott Branch river.

Although the dam has a low hazard potential, it is categorized with a moderate risk level (3) and has not been rated for its current condition. The last inspection date was in February 2018, with an inspection frequency of 5 years. The dam has uncontrolled spillways and outlet gates, and is not federally regulated, inspected, or permitted. Despite the lack of federal oversight, the dam provides a peaceful recreational environment in Gordon County, Georgia.

For those interested in water resource management and climate adaptation, Takela Lake Dam offers a unique opportunity to explore a historic structure that blends into the picturesque landscape of Fairmont. With its modest storage capacity and low hazard potential, the dam presents a manageable risk level for visitors and nearby residents. As a private-owned facility, Takela Lake Dam stands as a testament to the importance of local stewardship in maintaining water resources for both recreational and environmental purposes in the state of Georgia.

Year Completed

1941

Dam Length

210

Dam Height

16.5

River Or Stream

Scott Branch

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

8.3

Hydraulic Height

15.9

Drainage Area

1110

Nid Storage

104.7

Structural Height

15.9

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

17
       
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.