Old Vinings Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Old Vinings Lake Dam, located in Cobb, Georgia, is a private earth dam primarily used for recreation purposes.


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Summary

Built in 1950, this 27-foot high structure holds a storage capacity of 112 acre-feet and covers an 8-acre surface area. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment in 2016 was deemed poor, with a moderate risk level assigned.

Managed by the Georgia Safe Dams Program, the dam is subject to state regulation, permitting, inspection, and enforcement. With an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, the dam poses a moderate risk that requires ongoing risk management measures. The last inspection in 2016 noted the poor condition of the dam, highlighting the need for potential improvements to ensure the safety and integrity of the structure for both recreational and environmental purposes.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the maintenance and management of dams will find Old Vinings Lake Dam an intriguing case study. With a mix of historical significance, recreational importance, and maintenance challenges, this dam serves as a reminder of the ongoing efforts required to balance water management needs with environmental safety and sustainability in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1950

Dam Length

265

Dam Height

27

River Or Stream

UNKNOWN

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

8

Hydraulic Height

23

Nid Storage

112

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

27
       
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.