Sterling Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 4, 2025

Sterling Lake Dam, also known as Chapel Hill Lake Dam, is a private-owned structure located in DeKalb, Georgia.


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Summary

Built in 1950, this earth dam stands at 21 feet tall and spans 370 feet in length, primarily serving as a recreational site with a storage capacity of 59.4 acre-feet. While the dam is classified as low hazard potential and has not been rated for its current condition, it is noted to have a moderate risk level (3) associated with it.

Although the dam does not fall under state jurisdiction for regulation, permitting, inspection, or enforcement, it is managed for recreational purposes and does not have a designated emergency action plan in place. Despite the lack of recent inspection dates or condition assessments, Sterling Lake Dam remains a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts due to its historical significance and potential impact on the surrounding environment. With its uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, there is a need for ongoing monitoring and risk management measures to ensure the safety of the dam and its associated structures.

Year Completed

1950

Dam Length

370

Dam Height

21

River Or Stream

UNKNOWN

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Nid Storage

59.4

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

21
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.