Gray Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Gray Lake Dam, also known as Smith Lake Dam, is a private structure located in Columbia, Georgia.


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Summary

This earth dam, with a height of 28 feet and a hydraulic height of 22 feet, primarily serves recreational purposes. The dam has a normal storage capacity of 68 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 92 acre-feet, covering a surface area of 8 acres.

Despite its low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, Gray Lake Dam has not been rated for its condition. The dam features uncontrolled spillways and outlet gates, with no associated locks or locks. The last inspection conducted on the dam was in August 2018, with a scheduled inspection frequency of 5 years. While the dam is not state regulated or permitted, it falls under the jurisdiction of Georgia.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts may find Gray Lake Dam an interesting structure to study due to its unique design features and recreational purpose. Its location in a picturesque area of Georgia adds to its appeal, making it a potential subject for further research on dam safety and management practices. Despite its low hazard potential, ongoing inspections and risk assessments are crucial to ensuring the continued safety and effectiveness of Gray Lake Dam.

Dam Length

400

Dam Height

28

River Or Stream

UNKNOWN

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

8

Hydraulic Height

22

Nid Storage

92

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

28
       
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.