Fowler Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Fowler Lake Dam, also known as Bill Battle Lake Dam, is a privately-owned structure located in Gilmer, Georgia, near the city of Flat Branch Environs.


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Summary

Constructed in 1968 by Mr. Fowler, this earth dam stands at a height of 32 feet and has a length of 546 feet, creating a reservoir with a normal storage capacity of 84 acre-feet. The primary purpose of Fowler Lake Dam is for recreation, providing opportunities for water-based activities in the area.

Despite its recreational function, Fowler Lake Dam has been flagged for having a high hazard potential and poor condition assessment as of the last inspection in 2016. The dam is regulated by the Georgia Safe Dams Program, with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place to ensure its safety and compliance. With a drainage area of 606 square miles, the dam poses a moderate risk (rated as 3) according to risk assessment measures, highlighting the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance to mitigate any potential hazards.

In the event of an emergency, it is crucial for Fowler Lake Dam to have an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) in place, although details regarding its preparedness and adherence to guidelines are not currently available. With its location on Harper Creek and its integral role in the local water resource management, ensuring the stability and functionality of Fowler Lake Dam remains a priority for water resource and climate enthusiasts in the region.

Year Completed

1968

Dam Length

546

Dam Height

32

River Or Stream

HARPER CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

9

Drainage Area

606

Nid Storage

130

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

32
       
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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.