Cheatam Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Cheatam Lake Dam, located in Griffin, Georgia, is a privately owned structure primarily used for recreation purposes.


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Summary

This earthen dam, with a height of 24 feet and a length of 630 feet, has a storage capacity of 181 acre-feet and serves a drainage area of 92 square miles. While the dam is classified as having a low hazard potential, it is rated as having a moderate risk level (3) based on a risk assessment.

Despite being a private structure, Cheatam Lake Dam falls under state jurisdiction and is subject to periodic inspections. The last recorded inspection took place in October 2012, with a frequency of every five years. The dam is equipped with an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, providing essential safety features. While the condition assessment is currently marked as "Not Rated," the dam's risk management measures and emergency preparedness are not specifically outlined.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Cheatam Lake Dam presents an interesting case study in recreational dam infrastructure. Its location in Spalding County, Georgia, within the Savannah District, offers both a serene setting for outdoor activities and a potential focal point for discussions on dam safety and risk management. With its moderate risk level and low hazard potential, monitoring the condition and maintenance of Cheatam Lake Dam is crucial to ensuring the safety of the surrounding community and preserving the recreational opportunities it provides.

Dam Length

630

Dam Height

24

River Or Stream

UNKNOWN

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

14

Hydraulic Height

24

Drainage Area

92

Nid Storage

181

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

24
       
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.