Franklin Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Franklin Lake Dam, located in Upson, Georgia, was completed in 1971 and serves as a recreational reservoir with a storage capacity of 169 acre-feet.


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Summary

The dam stands at a height of 31 feet and has a length of 960 feet, constructed primarily with earth and stone materials. Despite being privately owned, the dam is subject to state jurisdiction and regulation, with inspections conducted regularly to ensure its structural integrity.

The dam's spillway is uncontrolled, and it poses a low hazard potential according to risk assessments. While the condition of the dam is currently not rated, it meets the necessary safety guidelines for moderate risk management. The surrounding area has a drainage area of 320 square miles, providing water resources for various purposes within the region. With a moderate risk level and regular inspections, Franklin Lake Dam remains a crucial structure for water resource management and climate enthusiasts in the area.

Owned by a private entity, Franklin Lake Dam offers a recreational oasis for visitors while maintaining a critical role in managing water resources in the region. The dam's construction was overseen by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, ensuring its adherence to safety standards and regulations. As a part of the Savannah District, the dam contributes to the overall water infrastructure in Georgia, reflecting a commitment to sustainable water management practices for the benefit of both recreation and conservation efforts.

Year Completed

1971

Dam Length

960

Dam Height

31

River Or Stream

UNKNOWN

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

10

Drainage Area

320

Nid Storage

169

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

31
       
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.