Lees Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Situated in Fairburn, Georgia, Lees Lake Dam stands as a rockfill structure along the Whitewater Creek.


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Summary

Built in 1890 for recreational purposes, the dam is owned privately and spans 90 feet in length with a height of 11 feet. With a storage capacity of 182 acre-feet and covering a surface area of 33 acres, the dam serves as a haven for water resource and climate enthusiasts seeking leisure activities in the area.

Despite being classified with a low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, the condition of Lees Lake Dam remains unrated as of the last inspection in May 2015. With an inspection frequency of 5 years, the dam's emergency action plan status, inundation maps, and risk management measures remain undisclosed. Its uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates add to the mystery surrounding its operational and safety protocols, making it a subject of interest for those studying water resource management and climate impacts in the region.

As a historical gem in Fayette County, Georgia, Lees Lake Dam presents a unique opportunity for researchers and enthusiasts to delve into its past and present significance. With its scenic location and recreational focus, the dam's structural details and risk assessment offer valuable insights into water management practices and climate resilience strategies for similar establishments in the region.

Year Completed

1890

Dam Length

90

Dam Height

11

River Or Stream

WHITEWATER CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Rockfill

Surface Area

33

Hydraulic Height

11

Drainage Area

7400

Nid Storage

182

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

11
       
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.