Cook Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Cook Lake Dam, located in Irwin, Georgia, was completed in 1967 and serves primarily for irrigation purposes.


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Summary

The dam, with a height of 15.4 feet and a length of 960 feet, has a storage capacity of 204.8 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 23 acres. It is classified as an Earth dam with a Buttress core type and an uncontrolled spillway.

Despite being privately owned, Cook Lake Dam falls under state jurisdiction and is subject to regular inspections. The dam has a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, highlighting the importance of proper risk management measures. The last inspection was conducted in 2009, with an inspection frequency of every 5 years.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will appreciate the strategic location of Cook Lake Dam in the Bethlehem Church Environs, as it plays a crucial role in supporting agricultural irrigation in the area. The dam's design by the Natural Resources Conservation Service ensures efficient water storage and distribution, contributing to sustainable water management practices. With its low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, Cook Lake Dam stands as a vital infrastructure for water resource conservation and climate resilience in the region.

Year Completed

1967

Dam Length

960

Dam Height

15.4

River Or Stream

UNKNOWN

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

23

Drainage Area

948

Nid Storage

204.8

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

15
       
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.