West Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

West Lake Dam in Georgia, completed in 1953, is a privately owned Earth dam standing at 17.4 feet high and spanning 232 feet in length.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

With a storage capacity of 61.5 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 37.1 acre-feet, the dam serves primarily for purposes other than flood control or water supply. Despite being unregulated by the state, the dam poses a low hazard potential and has not been rated for its condition.

Located in Gordon County, West Lake Dam is a captivating structure for water resource and climate enthusiasts. Its design, with a buttress core type and uncontrolled spillway, adds to its unique appeal. The dam's moderate risk assessment highlights the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure its safety and longevity. While the dam has not been inspected or assessed recently, its presence in the picturesque landscape of Sonoraville, Georgia, adds to the charm and intrigue of this lesser-known structure.

Year Completed

1953

Dam Length

232

Dam Height

17.4

River Or Stream

UNKNOWN

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

5.5

Hydraulic Height

17.4

Drainage Area

91

Nid Storage

61.5

Structural Height

17.4

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

17
       
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.