Thames Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Thames Lake Dam, located in Fayetteville, Georgia, was completed in 1953 and serves primarily for recreational purposes.


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Summary

The earth dam stands at a height of 14.8 feet and has a storage capacity of 71 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 37.5 acre-feet. While the dam is categorized as having low hazard potential, it has a moderate risk assessment rating.

Managed by a private owner, the dam has not been modified or inspected in recent years, and its condition assessment is currently listed as "Not Rated." The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, indicating a simpler design compared to other structures. Despite its age, Thames Lake Dam continues to provide a scenic backdrop and recreational opportunities for visitors to enjoy.

Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will find Thames Lake Dam to be an intriguing example of a privately owned earth dam in Georgia. With its historical significance dating back to the 1950s, the dam showcases the balance between recreational usage and the need for proper maintenance and risk management measures. As it remains unregulated by state agencies and has not been subject to recent inspections, the future maintenance and upkeep of Thames Lake Dam will be essential to ensure its continued safety and functionality for years to come.

Year Completed

1953

Dam Length

460

Dam Height

14.8

River Or Stream

UNKNOWN

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

7.5

Hydraulic Height

14

Drainage Area

70

Nid Storage

71

Structural Height

14

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

15
       
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.