Coggins Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Coggins Lake Dam, located in Elberton, Georgia, is a state-owned structure primarily used for recreation purposes.


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Summary

Built in 1965, this earth dam stands at a height of 25 feet and has a length of 360 feet, providing a storage capacity of 64 acre-feet. With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, the dam is currently not rated for its condition but is inspected every five years to ensure its safety.

Managed by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, Coggins Lake Dam is situated within the Savannah District and is regulated by the state of Georgia. Despite not being state-permitted, the dam undergoes regular state inspections to monitor its structural integrity. With an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, the dam poses a low risk of failure but is equipped to handle moderate risk scenarios.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Coggins Lake Dam presents an intriguing case study in dam management and recreational infrastructure. The dam's location in Elberton, Georgia, offers a serene setting for outdoor activities while highlighting the importance of maintaining and inspecting such structures to ensure public safety and environmental conservation. As a vital part of the local ecosystem, Coggins Lake Dam serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between human recreation and natural resource management in the face of changing climate patterns.

Year Completed

1965

Dam Length

360

Dam Height

25

River Or Stream

UNKNOWN

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

6

Hydraulic Height

18

Nid Storage

64

Structural Height

18

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

25
       
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.