Steele Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Steele Lake Dam, located in Locust Grove, Georgia, was completed in 1960 for recreational purposes along the Bethlehem Bottoms River.


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Summary

This privately owned earth dam stands at a height of 21 feet and spans 315 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 79 acre-feet. The dam's primary purpose is for recreation, offering a serene and scenic spot for water enthusiasts in Henry County.

Despite its low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment rating, Steele Lake Dam has not been inspected or assessed for its condition recently. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, with no associated locks or gates for water flow control. While the dam is not regulated by the state and has no enforcement or permitting requirements, its location and importance for recreational activities highlight the need for regular maintenance and oversight to ensure its safety and longevity for water resource and climate enthusiasts.

With its tranquil setting and historical significance as a recreational spot in Georgia, Steele Lake Dam serves as a popular destination for locals and visitors alike. While its risk level is considered moderate, continued monitoring and maintenance are essential to uphold its integrity and safety for all who enjoy the beauty and serenity it provides along the Bethlehem Bottoms River. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the importance of responsible dam management and upkeep is crucial to preserving such valuable natural assets for future generations to appreciate and enjoy.

Year Completed

1960

Dam Length

315

Dam Height

21

River Or Stream

BETHLEHEM BOTTOMS

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

8

Drainage Area

201

Nid Storage

79

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

21
       
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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.