Murphey Candler Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 4, 2025

Murphey Candler Lake Dam in DeKalb, Georgia, is a vital local government-owned structure that plays a significant role in providing recreation opportunities for the community.


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Summary

Situated along the N. Fork Nancy Creek, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 19 feet and has a hydraulic height of 17 feet. With a storage capacity of 547 acre-feet and a surface area of 36 acres, the dam serves as a popular spot for outdoor activities and water sports.

Despite its primary purpose being recreation, Murphey Candler Lake Dam is regulated by the Georgia Safe Dams Program, ensuring that it meets state inspection and enforcement standards. With a high hazard potential but a satisfactory condition assessment as of February 2017, the dam faces a moderate risk level. The dam's uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates add to its risk profile, highlighting the importance of ongoing risk management measures to ensure the safety of the surrounding community and environment.

As a key feature in the Savannah District, Murphey Candler Lake Dam's role in water resource management and climate resilience cannot be understated. With its location in an urban setting, the dam serves as a crucial element in flood control and water storage, showcasing the intersection of infrastructure, recreation, and environmental protection. As efforts continue to manage and monitor this significant structure, it serves as a reminder of the essential balance between human enjoyment and natural resource preservation in the face of changing climate conditions.

Dam Length

870

Dam Height

19

River Or Stream

N. FORK NANCY CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

36

Hydraulic Height

17

Drainage Area

1065

Nid Storage

547

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

19
       
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.