Durham's Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Durham's Lake Dam, located in Fairburn, Georgia, was completed in 1960 and serves as a recreational spot for water resource and climate enthusiasts.


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Summary

The dam stands at a height of 19.1 feet and has a hydraulic height of 13.3 feet, with a structural height matching that figure. Its primary purpose is recreation, offering a surface area of 12 acres and a normal storage capacity of 70 acre-feet. The dam's low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment (rating 3) make it a safe and enjoyable destination for outdoor activities.

Owned privately, Durham's Lake Dam is an earth dam with a buttress core type and an uncontrolled spillway. It has a length of 590 feet and a drainage area of 227 square miles, providing a tranquil setting for visitors to enjoy water-based activities. While the dam is not state regulated or permitted, its condition assessment is currently listed as "Not Rated," indicating a need for further evaluation to ensure its ongoing safety and functionality. Despite this, the dam continues to be a popular spot for locals and tourists seeking a peaceful retreat by the water.

The Mobile District of the US Army Corps of Engineers oversees Durham's Lake Dam, with its risk management measures and emergency action plans still in development. With David Scott (D) as the representative for the area, efforts are being made to maintain the dam's integrity and safety for all who visit. As a key feature in Fulton County, Georgia, Durham's Lake Dam stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water resource management and the enjoyment of natural environments in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1960

Dam Length

590

Dam Height

19.1

River Or Stream

UNKNOWN

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

12

Hydraulic Height

13.3

Drainage Area

227

Nid Storage

93

Structural Height

13.3

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.