Georgia Diagnostic Center Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

The Georgia Diagnostic Center Lake Dam, located in Butts County, Georgia, was completed in 1978 for recreational purposes.


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Summary

The dam, primarily constructed of earth with a buttress core design, stands at a height of 19 feet and has a length of 755 feet. With a normal storage capacity of 116 acre-feet and a maximum storage capacity of 209 acre-feet, the dam serves as a popular spot for outdoor activities in the area.

Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment, the dam has not been state-regulated or permitted. The last inspection of the dam was conducted in 2016, with an inspection frequency of every 5 years. The dam does not have an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) prepared or updated, and its condition assessment is currently listed as "Not Rated." With its uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, the Georgia Diagnostic Center Lake Dam remains a key feature in the local landscape for both recreational enjoyment and potential risk management considerations.

While the dam presents an integral water resource for the community, its lack of state regulation and enforcement raises questions about its long-term maintenance and safety protocols. As climate change continues to impact water resources and infrastructure, ensuring the proper management and upkeep of dams like the Georgia Diagnostic Center Lake Dam becomes increasingly crucial. With its scenic surroundings and recreational opportunities, the dam serves as a reminder of the importance of balancing human enjoyment with environmental stewardship in the face of a changing climate.

Year Completed

1978

Dam Length

755

Dam Height

19

River Or Stream

UNKNOWN

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

18

Hydraulic Height

18

Drainage Area

440

Nid Storage

209

Structural Height

18

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

19
       
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.