Joels Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Joels Lake Dam, located in DeKalb, Georgia, was completed in 1956 and serves as a vital recreational resource in the area.


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Summary

With a primary purpose of recreation, this earth dam stands at a height of 27 feet and has a storage capacity of 250 acre-feet. The dam spans 527 feet in length and covers a surface area of 23 acres, providing a serene getaway for water resource and climate enthusiasts alike.

Managed by a private owner, Joels Lake Dam is not regulated by the state but undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety and functionality. The dam's hazard potential is classified as low, with a moderate risk assessment rating. Despite not being rated for its condition, the dam continues to play a key role in the local community's recreational activities, offering a tranquil escape for visitors to enjoy the beauty of nature.

With its uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, Joels Lake Dam remains a picturesque landmark in Klondike, Georgia. While it may not boast a high-risk potential, the dam's moderate risk assessment suggests the need for ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure its long-term stability. As a beloved recreational spot in the area, this earth dam continues to provide a peaceful retreat for water enthusiasts and nature lovers to appreciate the beauty of Georgia's landscape.

Year Completed

1956

Dam Length

527

Dam Height

27

River Or Stream

UNKNOWN

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

23

Hydraulic Height

24

Drainage Area

363

Nid Storage

250

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

27
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.