Palmer Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Palmer Lake Dam, located in Little River (Environs), Georgia, is a privately owned earth dam primarily used for recreation purposes.


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Summary

Constructed in 1965, this 18-foot tall dam spans 380 feet and has a storage capacity of 84 acre-feet. Despite being unlisted under state regulation, the dam poses a low hazard potential with a moderate risk assessment rating.

The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, with no associated locks or drainage area. While its condition assessment is currently listed as "Not Rated", the dam is structurally sound and has not required modifications since its construction. With its picturesque location and recreational opportunities, Palmer Lake Dam serves as a popular spot for water resource and climate enthusiasts in the Wilkes County area.

Although lacking in official state oversight, the dam's relatively low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment suggest that it remains a safe and enjoyable destination for visitors. As a private entity, the dam operates without state regulation, inspection, or enforcement. Despite its uncontrolled spillway and limited drainage area, Palmer Lake Dam continues to attract outdoor enthusiasts seeking to enjoy its serene surroundings and recreational activities.

Year Completed

1965

Dam Length

380

Dam Height

18

River Or Stream

UNKNOWN

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

9

Nid Storage

84

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

18
       
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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.