Reed Bingham Park Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Reed Bingham Park Lake Dam, located in Cook, Georgia, was completed in 1970 for the primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

This Earth dam, with a height of 15.6 feet and a hydraulic height of 15 feet, impounds the waters of the Little River to create a picturesque lake that covers 295 acres and offers a variety of recreational activities for visitors to enjoy. The dam has a low hazard potential and is currently in a not rated condition based on the last inspection conducted in February 2010.

Managed by the state of Georgia, Reed Bingham Park Lake Dam serves as a popular destination for water resource and climate enthusiasts looking to explore the beautiful natural surroundings of the Burney Hill environs. The dam's reservoir has a normal storage capacity of 1032.5 acre-feet and a maximum storage capacity of 3812.5 acre-feet, providing ample opportunities for boating, fishing, and wildlife observation. While the dam is uncontrolled in terms of spillway and outlet gates, its risk assessment is moderate (3), indicating a need for ongoing monitoring and management measures to ensure its safety and functionality.

With a rich history dating back to its construction in the 1970s, Reed Bingham Park Lake Dam continues to be a vital part of the local ecosystem, supporting a diverse range of plant and animal species while offering a peaceful retreat for outdoor enthusiasts. The dam's association with the Little River and its proximity to the city of Burney Hill make it a valuable resource for both residents and visitors seeking to connect with nature and enjoy the beauty of Georgia's waterways. As efforts to maintain and monitor the dam continue, it remains a symbol of the state's commitment to preserving and enhancing its natural landscapes for future generations to appreciate and enjoy.

Year Completed

1970

Dam Length

2000

Dam Height

15.6

River Or Stream

LITTLE RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

295

Hydraulic Height

15

Drainage Area

385000

Nid Storage

3812.5

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

16
       
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.