Upper Cowart Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Cowart Lake Dam Vandivers Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Upper Cowart Lake Dam in Fulton County, Georgia, stands as a testament to the importance of water resource management for recreational purposes.
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Summary
This private dam, constructed primarily for recreational use, boasts an impressive earth core design with a buttress foundation. With a hydraulic height of 17 feet and a structural height of 17 feet, the dam serves to create a picturesque lake with a surface area of 6 acres. Despite its relatively low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, the dam has not been rated for its condition, highlighting the need for ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure its continued safety and functionality.
Situated in the city of BEN HILL, Upper Cowart Lake Dam's primary purpose of providing recreational opportunities is evident in its design and location. With a maximum storage capacity of 54 acre-feet and a normal storage of 48 acre-feet, the dam offers a tranquil setting for outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, and wildlife observation. While the dam does not fall under state jurisdiction and is not subject to regular inspections or permitting, its uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates suggest a need for careful management to prevent potential risks and ensure the safety of surrounding communities.
Although the exact year of completion and detailed structural information are not provided, Upper Cowart Lake Dam remains an essential feature for water and climate enthusiasts interested in the intersection of human-made infrastructure and natural resources. With its idyllic setting and recreational opportunities, the dam serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between human development and environmental stewardship in the management of water resources.
Dam Length |
570 |
Dam Height |
22.5 |
River Or Stream |
UNKNOWN |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
6 |
Hydraulic Height |
17 |
Nid Storage |
54 |
Structural Height |
17 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
23 |
Seasonal Comparison
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Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
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