Horton Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Horton Lake Dam, located in Griffin, Georgia, was completed in 1962 by the Natural Resources Conservation Service.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

This private dam serves primarily for recreational purposes, offering a serene escape for water enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Standing at a height of 22 feet and with a hydraulic height of 18 feet, the dam boasts a storage capacity of 198 acre-feet and a drainage area of 331 square miles.

Despite its low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, Horton Lake Dam has not been rated for its condition as of the last inspection in 2012. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, contributing to its unique design as an earth dam with a buttress core type. While it is not regulated by the state, the dam undergoes regular inspections every five years to ensure its safety and structural integrity.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Horton Lake Dam presents an opportunity to appreciate the intersection of human engineering with natural landscapes. Its tranquil waters, surrounding wildlife, and recreational amenities offer a glimpse into the delicate balance between conservation and human enjoyment. As efforts continue to monitor and maintain the dam, it stands as a testament to the importance of responsible stewardship of our water resources in the face of evolving environmental challenges.

Year Completed

1962

Dam Length

774

Dam Height

22

River Or Stream

UNKNOWN

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

16

Hydraulic Height

18

Drainage Area

331

Nid Storage

198

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

22
       
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.