Royal Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Royal Lake Dam, also known as Baldwin Lake Dam, is a private earth dam located in Columbia, Georgia, along the Walton Branch river.


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Summary

Completed in 1976, this recreational structure stands at a height of 45 feet and has a maximum storage capacity of 335 acre-feet. With a low hazard potential, the dam has a moderate risk assessment rating of 3, indicating the need for proper risk management measures.

Despite being privately owned, the dam is subject to state jurisdiction and inspection, ensuring its structural integrity and safety for nearby residents and visitors. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, with a primary purpose of recreation. With its scenic surroundings and vast surface area of 15 acres, Royal Lake Dam provides a tranquil environment for water resource and climate enthusiasts to appreciate the beauty of nature while enjoying various outdoor activities.

As a key feature in the Lewiston area, Royal Lake Dam serves as a reminder of the importance of responsible dam management and maintenance to ensure the sustainability of water resources and the protection of surrounding ecosystems. Its location in a picturesque setting, coupled with its moderate risk assessment, makes it a valuable asset for both recreational purposes and environmental conservation efforts in the region.

Year Completed

1976

Dam Length

885

Dam Height

45

River Or Stream

WALTON BRANCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

15

Hydraulic Height

40

Nid Storage

335

Structural Height

40

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

45
       
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.