Richards Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Richards Lake Dam, located in Whitesburg, Georgia, was completed in 1958 and serves primarily for recreational purposes.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

This private earth dam has a height of 18.5 feet and a hydraulic height of 15 feet, with a maximum storage capacity of 81.5 acre-feet. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam has not been inspected since December 2000 and is currently rated as "Not Rated" in terms of condition assessment.

Although the dam is uncontrolled in terms of spillway type and outlet gates, it poses a moderate risk (rated as 3 out of 5) due to its outdated inspection records and lack of regulatory oversight. The surrounding area has a drainage area of 393 square miles, with a surface area of 8.3 acres. While the dam has not been modified in recent years, it is essential for stakeholders to address the potential risks associated with this structure to ensure the safety of the community and the conservation of water resources in the region. By implementing proper risk management measures and conducting regular inspections, Richards Lake Dam can continue to serve its recreational purpose effectively while minimizing any potential hazards to the environment and nearby residents.

Year Completed

1958

Dam Length

240

Dam Height

18.5

River Or Stream

UNKNOWN

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

8.3

Hydraulic Height

15

Drainage Area

393

Nid Storage

81.5

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

19
       
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.