Spencer Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Spencer Lake Dam in Haralson, Coweta, Georgia, is a picturesque earth dam situated on Gray Branch, primarily serving the purpose of recreation.


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Summary

Standing at a height of 18.2 feet with a hydraulic height of 13.2 feet, the dam boasts a length of 960 feet and a storage capacity of 65.3 acre-feet. Despite its low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, the dam has not been inspected since July 1984 and is currently rated as "Not Rated" in terms of condition assessment.

Owned by the local government, Spencer Lake Dam is not state-regulated and does not have any associated structures or federal agency involvement. While the dam's spillway is uncontrolled, the outlet gates also lack control mechanisms. The surrounding area covers 7.4 acres, providing a serene setting for recreational activities. With its unique design features, including a buttress core and unlisted/unknown foundations, Spencer Lake Dam stands as a testament to engineering ingenuity in the realm of water resource management.

Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will find Spencer Lake Dam an intriguing subject for study and exploration. From its historical construction details to its current risk assessment status, the dam offers a glimpse into the intersection of human intervention and natural forces. As efforts to enhance dam safety and resilience continue, Spencer Lake Dam serves as a reminder of the importance of proactive monitoring and maintenance in safeguarding vital water resources for present and future generations.

Dam Length

960

Dam Height

18.2

River Or Stream

GRAY BRANCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

7.4

Hydraulic Height

13.2

Nid Storage

65.3

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

18
       
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.