Upper Coots Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Upper Coots Lake Dam, located in Polk, Georgia, was completed in 1960 and serves as a recreational site along Hills Creek.


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Summary

Designed by C.C. Hulsey, this concrete dam with a buttress core stands at a height of 12 feet and has a hydraulic height of 15.5 feet. The dam has a normal storage capacity of 63 acre-feet and a maximum capacity of 85 acre-feet, providing ample opportunities for water-based activities in the area.

Despite its low hazard potential, the dam has not been rated for its condition assessment, and its last inspection took place in February 2019. The dam is currently unregulated by the state, with no permitting, inspection, or enforcement measures in place. While the risk assessment for the dam is moderate, with a score of 3, there are no specific risk management measures or emergency action plans in effect for Upper Coots Lake Dam. Overall, this dam serves as a vital recreational resource in the region, but its maintenance and safety protocols may require further attention to ensure the well-being of the surrounding community and environment.

Year Completed

1960

Dam Length

100

Dam Height

12

River Or Stream

HILLS CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

11

Hydraulic Height

15.5

Nid Storage

85

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

16
       
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.