Buckner Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Buckner Lake Dam, also known as Ono Road Lake Dam, is a private earth dam located in Palmetto, Georgia.


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Summary

Built by the Soil Conservation Service (SCS) in 1950, the dam stands at a height of 26.7 feet and has a maximum storage capacity of 154 acre-feet. The primary purpose of this dam is for recreation, offering a 10.1-acre surface area for activities such as boating and fishing.

Despite being privately owned, Buckner Lake Dam falls under state jurisdiction and is subject to regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity. With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, the dam poses minimal threats to downstream communities in the event of a failure. The last inspection conducted in May 2017 deemed its condition as "Not Rated," suggesting that further assessment may be needed to fully evaluate its safety and maintenance needs.

Overall, Buckner Lake Dam serves as a vital water resource for the local area, providing recreational opportunities while also maintaining a moderate level of risk management measures. As climate change impacts water resources, it is essential for stakeholders to continue monitoring and maintaining dams like Buckner Lake to ensure their safety and longevity for future generations of water resource and climate enthusiasts.

Year Completed

1950

Dam Length

720

Dam Height

26.7

River Or Stream

UNKNOWN

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

10.1

Hydraulic Height

22.3

Nid Storage

154

Structural Height

22.3

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

27
       
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.