Hancock Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: New Lake Dam Ellerbee Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Hancock Lake Dam, also known as New Lake Dam, is a private structure located in Upson, Georgia, along the McCoy's Branch river.
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Summary
With a primary purpose of recreation, this dam stands at 20 feet high and spans a length of 660 feet. It has a storage capacity of 115 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 10 acres, serving as a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts in the area.
Designed by the Soil Conservation Service (SCS), Hancock Lake Dam has been inspected for safety and deemed to have a low hazard potential. Despite not being state-regulated, the dam is regularly monitored and maintained, with its last inspection conducted in June 2018. The risk assessment for this structure is moderate, indicating a need for ongoing risk management measures to ensure the safety of the surrounding community and environment.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Hancock Lake Dam offers a fascinating glimpse into the intersection of human infrastructure and natural systems. As a recreational dam in a private ownership, its design and construction reflect the balance between providing leisure opportunities for residents while also safeguarding against potential hazards. With its earth core and stone foundations, this dam serves as a functional and aesthetically pleasing addition to the landscape, highlighting the importance of responsible dam management in mitigating risks and maintaining the integrity of water resources.
Dam Length |
660 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
MCCOYS BRANCH |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
10 |
Drainage Area |
350 |
Nid Storage |
115 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
20 |
Seasonal Comparison
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Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Hancock Lake Dam