Chestnut Springs Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Chestnut Springs Lake Dam, also known as Sheffer Dam, is a privately owned Earth dam located in Cobb, Georgia.


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Summary

Built in 1979 by designer C. W. Mathews, this dam serves primarily for recreational purposes and stands at a height of 21.6 feet with a storage capacity of 67 acre-feet. The dam overlooks a picturesque lake with a surface area of 5 acres, providing a serene backdrop for water resource and climate enthusiasts to explore and enjoy.

While Chestnut Springs Lake Dam is not regulated by the state and has a low hazard potential, its moderate risk assessment indicates the need for ongoing monitoring and management. With an uncontrolled spillway type and outlet gates, the dam poses a moderate risk level (3) in terms of potential hazards. Despite not being state-regulated or inspected, the dam's condition remains unrated, highlighting the importance of periodic assessments and emergency action planning to ensure the safety and integrity of the structure.

For those interested in exploring this hidden gem in Cobb County, Georgia, Chestnut Springs Lake Dam offers a unique opportunity to appreciate the intersection of nature and engineering. With its tranquil surroundings and recreational focus, this privately owned dam provides a glimpse into the balance between human intervention and natural beauty, making it a fascinating location for water resource and climate enthusiasts to visit and learn more about the dynamics of dam infrastructure in a scenic setting.

Year Completed

1979

Dam Length

260

Dam Height

21.6

River Or Stream

UNKNOWN

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

5

Hydraulic Height

21

Drainage Area

267

Nid Storage

67

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

22
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.