Masseys Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Masseys Lake Dam in Barrow, Georgia, is a privately owned structure designed by C A RUTLEDGE for recreational purposes.


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Summary

Completed in 1955, this earth dam stands at a height of 23 feet and has a maximum storage capacity of 81 acre-feet. The dam's primary purpose is for recreation, offering a surface area of 7 acres for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy.

With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, Masseys Lake Dam has not been inspected since 1989 and is currently in "Not Rated" condition. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway type and outlet gates, with no associated structures or regulatory agencies overseeing its operation. Despite its age, the dam continues to provide recreational opportunities for the community around Winder, Georgia, under the ownership of a private entity.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in Masseys Lake Dam can appreciate its historical significance as a recreational feature in the region. While the dam's condition assessment is not rated, its low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment suggest a relatively stable structure. As the dam remains privately owned and not state-regulated, it serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining and monitoring aging infrastructure for both safety and environmental preservation in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1955

Dam Length

1068

Dam Height

23

River Or Stream

UNKNOWN

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

7

Hydraulic Height

13

Nid Storage

81

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.