Foster Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Haralson, Georgia, Foster Lake Dam stands as a vital earth dam on Mill Creek, serving primarily for recreational purposes since its completion in 1951.


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Summary

With a height of 31.8 feet, this buttress dam boasts a structural height of 23.2 feet and a length of 582 feet, providing a normal storage capacity of 147 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 209 acre-feet. Despite being privately owned, the dam is subject to state jurisdiction and periodic inspections, ensuring its structural integrity and low hazard potential.

The dam's uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates highlight its simplistic design, while its moderate risk assessment rating calls for the implementation of risk management measures in the future. Foster Lake Dam's picturesque 14.7-acre surface area and proximity to the city of Draketown make it a popular destination for water resource and climate enthusiasts seeking a serene recreational spot. Although not federally regulated, the dam's compliance with state inspection requirements and its low hazard potential underscore its importance in maintaining water resource safety in the region.

As a significant feature in the Mobile District of Georgia, Foster Lake Dam not only offers recreational opportunities but also contributes to the management of Mill Creek's drainage area of 260 square miles. While its condition remains unrated, the dam's historical significance and location within Tom Graves' congressional district add to its allure. With a focus on risk mitigation and ongoing inspections, Foster Lake Dam continues to play a crucial role in water resource management and climate resilience efforts in Haralson County.

Year Completed

1951

Dam Length

582

Dam Height

31.8

River Or Stream

MILL CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

14.7

Hydraulic Height

23.2

Drainage Area

260

Nid Storage

209

Structural Height

23.2

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

32
       
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.