Balkcom Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Balkcom Lake Dam, located in Blakely, Georgia, is a private recreational dam completed in 1949 with a primary purpose of providing recreational opportunities.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
The dam, of earth type with a buttress core, stands at a height of 11.2 feet and has a length of 960 feet. It has a storage capacity of 425 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 126 acre-feet and a surface area of 42 acres.
Although the dam has a low hazard potential and is currently not rated in terms of condition assessment, it undergoes inspections every five years, with the last inspection conducted in June 2011. The risk assessment for Balkcom Lake Dam indicates a moderate risk level. While the dam is not state-regulated, it falls under the jurisdiction of the state and is subject to state inspections. Additionally, the dam features an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Balkcom Lake Dam presents an intriguing case study of a privately-owned recreational dam in Georgia. Its design and construction details, storage capacity, and risk assessment provide valuable insights into the management and safety considerations of such structures in relation to water resources and climate conditions. The dam's location in Early County, Georgia, amidst a drainage area of 980 square miles, adds to its significance in the regional water resource landscape.
Year Completed |
1949 |
Dam Length |
960 |
Dam Height |
11.2 |
River Or Stream |
UNKNOWN |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
42 |
Hydraulic Height |
11.2 |
Drainage Area |
980 |
Nid Storage |
425 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
11 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Balkcom Lake Dam