Bolga Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Columbia, Georgia, the Bolga Lake Dam is a privately owned structure with a primary purpose of serving as a fire protection reservoir and small fish pond.


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Summary

Built in 1963 by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 27 feet and spans 365 feet in length, providing a storage capacity of 89 acre-feet. Despite its uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, the dam is classified as low hazard potential with a moderate risk assessment rating.

With a normal storage capacity of 62 acre-feet and a surface area of 8 acres, the Bolga Lake Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region. Although not state regulated, the dam undergoes regular inspections with a frequency of 5 years, ensuring its structural integrity and safety. Despite its operational efficiency, the dam's condition remains unrated, highlighting the need for ongoing monitoring and maintenance to mitigate any potential risks and safeguard the surrounding community and ecosystem.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Bolga Lake Dam serves as a notable feature in the local landscape, offering both practical utility for fire protection and recreational potential as a small fish pond. As a privately owned structure, it represents a collaborative effort between the owner and the Natural Resources Conservation Service, showcasing the importance of public-private partnerships in managing water resources effectively. With its moderate risk assessment and low hazard potential, the dam presents a valuable opportunity for continued monitoring and enhancement to ensure its long-term sustainability and resilience in the face of changing environmental conditions.

Year Completed

1963

Dam Length

365

Dam Height

27

River Or Stream

UNKNOWN

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

8

Hydraulic Height

20

Nid Storage

89

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.