Shope Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Jarrett Lake Dam West Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Shope Lake Dam, located in Gordon, Georgia, is a privately-owned structure primarily used for recreation purposes.
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Summary
Built in 1960, this earth dam stands at a height of 22.5 feet and has a hydraulic height of 20.4 feet. With a storage capacity of 80.3 acre-feet, the dam has a normal storage level of 60.5 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 6.8 acres. Despite being unregulated by the state and having a low hazard potential, the dam is considered to have moderate risk, with a risk assessment rating of 3.
Situated in the Nashville District and owned by a private entity, Shope Lake Dam does not have any associated structures or federal agency involvement in its ownership, funding, design, construction, regulation, inspection, or operation. While the dam's condition is currently not rated, it is categorized as having moderate risk management measures in place. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, with no locks present. It is noteworthy that the dam has not been inspected or assessed for emergency preparedness, indicating potential areas for improvement in its risk management strategies.
Overall, Shope Lake Dam serves as a recreational site in Sonoraville, Georgia, offering opportunities for outdoor activities and water-based enjoyment. As a key feature in the local landscape, the dam's moderate risk level highlights the importance of continued monitoring and maintenance to ensure the safety and functionality of this earth structure for both recreational users and the surrounding environment. With its historical significance dating back to the 1960s, Shope Lake Dam remains a notable landmark in the region for water resource and climate enthusiasts to explore and appreciate.
Year Completed |
1960 |
Dam Length |
249 |
Dam Height |
22.5 |
River Or Stream |
UNKNOWN |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
6.8 |
Hydraulic Height |
20.4 |
Drainage Area |
259 |
Nid Storage |
80.3 |
Structural Height |
20.4 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
23 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Coosawattee River Near Pine Chapel
|
602cfs |
Oostanaula River At Resaca
|
1020cfs |
Talking Rock Creek Near Hinton
|
84cfs |
Coosawattee River At Carters
|
460cfs |
Two Run Creek Near Kingston
|
23cfs |
Conasauga River At Tilton
|
356cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Shope Lake Dam