Alta Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Alta Lake Dam, also known as Stewart Lake Dam, is a private-owned structure located in North Ocilla Environs, Georgia.


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Summary

Built in 1963, this Earth dam stands at a height of 12.8 feet and spans a length of 792 feet, with a maximum storage capacity of 116.7 acre-feet. The primary purpose of Alta Lake Dam is for recreation, offering a surface area of 13.5 acres and normal storage of 58.7 acre-feet for activities such as boating and fishing.

Despite being unregulated by the state, Alta Lake Dam is subject to periodic inspections to ensure its structural integrity and safety. With a hazard potential rated as low and a moderate risk assessment, measures for risk management are in place to mitigate any potential threats. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, contributing to its overall risk profile. Although the condition assessment is currently not rated, the dam is regularly inspected every 5 years to monitor its performance and address any maintenance or safety concerns.

Situated within the jurisdiction of Irwin County, Georgia, Alta Lake Dam serves as a recreational hub for locals and visitors alike. With its picturesque location and diverse ecosystem, this dam plays a vital role in providing leisure opportunities while also being mindful of the potential risks associated with its operation. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the nuances of dams like Alta Lake Dam is crucial for promoting sustainable water management practices and ensuring the safety of our communities and ecosystems.

Year Completed

1963

Dam Length

792

Dam Height

12.8

River Or Stream

UNKNOWN

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

13.5

Drainage Area

144

Nid Storage

116.7

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

13
       
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.