Charles Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Charles Lake Dam, also known as Miller Lake Dam, is a private structure located in Bowdon Junction, Georgia.


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Summary

Completed in 1970, this earth dam stands at a height of 22.1 feet and has a length of 615 feet, serving primarily for fire protection and as a stock or small fish pond. The dam has a storage capacity of 129.4 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 70.6 acre-feet and a surface area of 8.3 acres.

Despite being privately owned, Charles Lake Dam is not regulated by the state and does not require permitting for operation. The dam's hazard potential is classified as low, with a moderate risk assessment rating. While the condition of the dam has not been formally assessed, it is inspected every five years to ensure its structural integrity. The emergency action plan for the dam is currently not prepared or updated, indicating a potential area for improvement in risk management measures.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Charles Lake Dam offers an intriguing case study of a privately owned structure with important functions for fire protection and wildlife support. Its location in Carroll County, Georgia, and the lack of state regulation raise questions about the effectiveness of oversight for such dams and the need for proactive risk management strategies. With a moderate risk assessment and a low hazard potential, ongoing monitoring and maintenance of Charles Lake Dam will be crucial to ensure its continued safety and functionality in the years to come.

Year Completed

1970

Dam Length

615

Dam Height

22.1

River Or Stream

UNKNOWN

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

8.3

Hydraulic Height

22.1

Nid Storage

129.4

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

22
       
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.