Awbrey Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Awbrey Lake Dam, located in Franklin, Georgia, is a privately owned earth dam with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

Constructed in 1963 by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, the dam stands at a height of 27.9 feet and has a hydraulic height of 23.8 feet. It impounds Tolieson Creek, creating a surface area of 17.5 acres and providing a normal storage capacity of 150.5 acre-feet for recreational use.

Despite being unregulated by the state, Awbrey Lake Dam has a low hazard potential and is rated as having a moderate risk level. The dam has not been formally assessed for its condition, but it is inspected every five years, with the last inspection conducted in August 2019. The dam has uncontrolled spillways and outlet gates, and while it does not have a formal emergency action plan in place, emergency contacts are updated as needed.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Awbrey Lake Dam offers a unique opportunity to explore the intersection of human-made infrastructure and natural water systems. Its design and construction by the Natural Resources Conservation Service highlight the importance of balancing recreational access with environmental stewardship. With its tranquil setting and moderate risk profile, Awbrey Lake Dam serves as a reminder of the delicate relationship between water resources, infrastructure, and public safety.

Year Completed

1963

Dam Length

405

Dam Height

27.9

River Or Stream

Tolieson Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

17.5

Hydraulic Height

23.8

Drainage Area

863

Nid Storage

287

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

28
       
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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.