Forts Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Forts Lake Dam, located in Lumpkin, Georgia, is a private-owned structure primarily used for recreation.


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Summary

Built in 1955, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 19.5 feet with a hydraulic height of 19.2 feet. With a capacity of 138.6 acre-feet, it serves as a recreational spot with a surface area of 12.4 acres and a drainage area of 363 square miles.

Although the dam is currently rated as having a low hazard potential, it is not regulated by the state and has not been inspected since September 2019. Despite its moderate risk assessment score of 3, there are no specific risk management measures or emergency action plans in place. The dam features uncontrolled spillways and outlet gates, indicating a potential need for further evaluation and preparedness in case of emergencies.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Forts Lake Dam presents an intriguing case study of a privately-owned recreational structure with limited state oversight and maintenance. Its historical significance, design characteristics, and potential risks warrant attention from those interested in the intersection of water management, dam safety, and environmental conservation in Georgia.

Year Completed

1955

Dam Length

540

Dam Height

19.5

River Or Stream

UNKNOWN

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

12.4

Hydraulic Height

19.2

Drainage Area

363

Nid Storage

138.6

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

20
       
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.