Summer Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Summer Lake Dam, also known as Painted Turtle Lake Dam, is a private structure located in Henry, Georgia, specifically in the city of Locust Grove.


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Summary

Built in 1970, this earth dam stands at a height of 18 feet and stretches 380 feet in length, creating a reservoir with a normal storage capacity of 165 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 615 acre-feet. The dam serves primarily for recreational purposes, offering a surface area of 33 acres for visitors to enjoy.

Situated on Indian Creek and falling under the jurisdiction of the state of Georgia, Summer Lake Dam has a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating. Although it is not regulated by the state, the dam undergoes regular inspections with a frequency of 5 years, with the last inspection conducted in March 2017. The dam features uncontrolled spillways and outlet gates, with no associated locks, and has not been modified since its completion.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Summer Lake Dam presents an intriguing case study of a privately owned recreational structure that plays a role in water management and conservation efforts in the region. With its unique design features and historical significance, the dam offers opportunities for further research and analysis in the context of sustainable water resource management and climate adaptation strategies.

Year Completed

1970

Dam Length

380

Dam Height

18

River Or Stream

INDIAN CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

33

Drainage Area

2890

Nid Storage

615

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

18
       
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.