Ramsden Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Ramsden Lake Dam, located in Stone Mountain, Georgia, is a privately-owned earth dam primarily used for recreation purposes.


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Summary

Standing at 23 feet tall with a hydraulic height of 17 feet, this dam holds a storage capacity of 80 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 58 acre-feet. The dam spans 450 feet in length and covers an impressive surface area of 8 acres.

Despite being unregulated by the state and having a low hazard potential, Ramsden Lake Dam has not been inspected since February 1984 and is currently rated as "Not Rated" in terms of its condition assessment. However, with a moderate risk assessment of 3 out of 5, there is a need for further evaluation and potential risk management measures to ensure the safety of the surrounding area. While the dam has not been modified or updated in recent years, its uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates may pose a moderate risk to its overall integrity.

Overall, Ramsden Lake Dam serves as a key recreational spot in DeKalb County, but its outdated inspection records and moderate risk assessment highlight the importance of continued monitoring and maintenance to mitigate potential hazards. As climate change continues to impact water resources, it is crucial for dam owners and regulators to prioritize safety measures to protect the surrounding community and environment.

Dam Length

450

Dam Height

23

River Or Stream

UNKNOWN

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

8

Hydraulic Height

17

Nid Storage

80

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

23
       
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.