Griffin Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Graham Pond Dam Morgan Pond Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Griffin Lake Dam, located in the picturesque surroundings of Griffin Lake in Effingham, Georgia, is a privately owned structure primarily designed for recreation purposes.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Built in 1921, this earth dam with a buttress core stands at a height of 17 feet and spans a length of 2700 feet. The dam has a maximum storage capacity of 1262 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 787 acre-feet, covering a surface area of 105 acres.
Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, Griffin Lake Dam is subject to regular inspections, with the last assessment conducted in March 2016. The dam is equipped with uncontrolled spillways and outlet gates, serving its recreational and water storage functions efficiently. While the risk assessment deems the structure to have a moderate risk level, no specific risk management measures or emergency action plans have been reported for this dam.
Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will find Griffin Lake Dam to be an intriguing site due to its historical significance, engineering design, and recreational value. Situated within the serene Griffin Lake environs, this dam serves as a testament to early 20th-century water management practices in Georgia, warranting continued monitoring and maintenance to ensure its safety and longevity in the face of changing environmental conditions.
Year Completed |
1921 |
Dam Length |
2700 |
Dam Height |
17 |
River Or Stream |
UNKNOWN |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
105 |
Hydraulic Height |
15 |
Nid Storage |
1262 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
17 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Ebenezer Creek At Springfield
|
12cfs |
Savannah River Near Clyo
|
6820cfs |
Ogeechee River Near Eden
|
545cfs |
Black Creek Near Blitchton
|
9cfs |
Abercorn Cr (Water Intake) Nr Savannah
|
1620cfs |
Savannah River Near Port Wentworth
|
19300cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Griffin Lake Dam