Hayes Lake Dam (Lower) Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Hayes Lake Dam (Lower), also known as Elder Lake Dam (Lower), is a private earth dam located in Oconee, Georgia.
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Summary
Built in 1953, the dam stands at a height of 16 feet and serves primarily for recreation purposes. With a maximum storage capacity of 65 acre-feet and a normal storage of 39 acre-feet, the dam covers a surface area of 8 acres and has a drainage area of 0 square miles.
Although the dam is categorized as low hazard potential and is currently not rated for condition assessment, it is monitored for risk assessment, which indicates a moderate risk level. The dam's spillway type is uncontrolled, and it has an uncontrolled outlet gate. The last inspection date recorded was in June 1997, suggesting a need for more recent evaluations to ensure the safety and functionality of the structure.
Located near the city of Carey, Hayes Lake Dam (Lower) presents an intriguing case for water resource and climate enthusiasts. Its design, purpose, and risk assessment offer valuable insights into the management and maintenance of dams for recreational use in the state of Georgia. Further examination and monitoring of this dam could contribute to a better understanding of water infrastructure sustainability and resilience in the region.
Year Completed |
1953 |
Dam Length |
1420 |
Dam Height |
16 |
River Or Stream |
UNKNOWN |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
8 |
Hydraulic Height |
13 |
Nid Storage |
65 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
16 |
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 (Lower)