Noonday Creek Ws Str # 16 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Noonday Creek WS Str # 16, also known as Nelson Lake, is a state-regulated water structure located in Cobb, Georgia, within the Big Shanty Road Community.


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Summary

Constructed in 1955, this earth dam stands at a height of 29 feet and has a hydraulic height of 23 feet, serving primarily for flood risk reduction purposes. With a maximum storage capacity of 471 acre-feet and a drainage area of 1100 acres, this dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region.

Despite its high hazard potential, Noonday Creek WS Str # 16 has been assessed to be in satisfactory condition as of the last inspection conducted in April 2017. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, with an associated surface area of 10 acres. With its moderate risk assessment rating, this structure is subject to regular inspections every two years to ensure its continued safety and effectiveness in flood risk reduction. Managed by the Georgia-SAFE DAMS PROGRAM, this dam is a vital component of the water infrastructure in the area.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the critical role that structures like Noonday Creek WS Str # 16 play in managing flood risks and safeguarding communities is essential. With its history dating back to the 1950s and a significant storage capacity, this state-regulated dam serves as a key asset in the water management system of Cobb County, Georgia. As efforts continue to monitor and maintain its condition, this structure stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water resource management in the face of changing climate patterns.

Year Completed

1955

Dam Length

450

Dam Height

29

River Or Stream

UNKNOWN

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

10

Hydraulic Height

23

Drainage Area

1100

Nid Storage

471

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

29
       
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.