Hayes Lake Dam (Upper) Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Hayes Lake Dam (Upper), also known as Elder Lake Dam (Upper), is a privately owned structure located in Carey, Georgia.
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Summary
Built in 1953, this earth-type dam stands at a height of 24 feet and has a length of 265 feet. Its primary purpose is for recreation, with a storage capacity of 69 acre-feet and a surface area of 6 acres.
Although the dam is not regulated by the state, it has a low hazard potential and is currently rated as "Not Rated" in terms of condition assessment. The spillway type is uncontrolled, and there are no outlet gates. Despite its moderate risk level, the dam has not been inspected since June 1997. The surrounding area is at a low risk of inundation, and there are no emergency action plans in place.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Hayes Lake Dam (Upper) presents an interesting case study of a privately owned recreational dam with limited state oversight. The dam's historical significance, design features, and current risk assessment highlight the importance of regular inspections and maintenance to ensure the safety and functionality of such structures in the face of changing environmental conditions.
Year Completed |
1953 |
Dam Length |
265 |
Dam Height |
24 |
River Or Stream |
UNKNOWN |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
6 |
Nid Storage |
69 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
24 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Oconee River Near Penfield
|
527cfs |
Apalachee River Near Bostwick
|
111cfs |
Middle Oconee River Near Athens
|
221cfs |
North Oconee River At College St
|
120cfs |
Middle Oconee River Near Arcade
|
191cfs |
South Fork Broad River At Carlton
|
87cfs |
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.
Hayes Lake Dam (Upper)