Able Acres Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Able Acres Lake Dam, located in Sumter, Georgia, was completed in 1964 and serves multiple purposes including fire protection and as a stock or small fish pond.


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Summary

The dam is of earth type with a buttress core and stands at a height of 19 feet, with a hydraulic height of 17.5 feet. It has a length of 450 feet and a storage capacity of 243 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 178.1 acre-feet.

The dam overlooks Bailey Creek and has a low hazard potential, with a moderate risk assessment rating. While it is not currently state regulated or permitted, it undergoes regular inspections with the last one conducted in August 2009. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, and is situated in a picturesque setting with a surface area of 233.9 acres and a drainage area of 1462 acres.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will appreciate the historical significance and engineering of Able Acres Lake Dam, as well as its role in supporting local fire protection efforts and wildlife habitat. The dam's tranquil surroundings and multiple functions make it an important feature in the region, offering both practical benefits and recreational opportunities for residents and visitors alike.

Year Completed

1964

Dam Length

450

Dam Height

19

River Or Stream

BAILEY CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

233.9

Hydraulic Height

17.5

Drainage Area

1462

Nid Storage

243

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

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.