Naturally Fresh Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Naturally Fresh Lake Dam, also known as Lake Estes Dam, is a privately owned structure located in Fulton County, Georgia, specifically in the city of Red Oak.


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Summary

Built in 1965, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 25.9 feet and has a maximum storage capacity of 169 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 97 acre-feet. Its primary purpose is for recreation, offering a serene and picturesque setting for water enthusiasts to enjoy.

Situated on Morning Creek, this dam plays a crucial role in maintaining the surface area of 14 acres and a drainage area of 377 acres. Despite having uncontrolled spillways and outlet gates, the hazard potential of this dam is rated as low, with a moderate overall risk assessment. The dam is inspected every five years, with the last assessment conducted in April 2017. While its condition remains unrated, the dam continues to serve its recreational purpose effectively while ensuring the safety of the surrounding community.

With its tranquil surroundings and modest risk profile, Naturally Fresh Lake Dam stands as a testament to responsible water resource management in the region. As climate change and water scarcity become increasingly pressing issues, the importance of maintaining and monitoring such structures becomes paramount. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, this dam serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between human enjoyment and environmental stewardship in the face of evolving weather patterns and growing water demands.

Year Completed

1965

Dam Length

270

Dam Height

25.9

River Or Stream

MORNING CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

14

Hydraulic Height

18.9

Drainage Area

377

Nid Storage

169

Structural Height

18.9

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

26
       
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.