Ellison Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Ellison Lake Dam, located in Canton, Georgia, was completed in 1947 and is primarily used for recreational purposes.


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Summary

The dam, designed by C.W. Ellison, stands at a height of 30.5 feet with a hydraulic height of 29.5 feet. It has a storage capacity of 97.7 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 69.3 acre-feet. The dam is classified as an earth dam with a buttress core type and is considered to have a low hazard potential.

Despite not being regulated by the state, Ellison Lake Dam is subject to regular inspections, with the last one conducted in April 2019. The dam has an uncontrolled spillway type and outlet gates, with a maximum discharge capacity of 97.7 cubic feet per second. While the condition of the dam is currently not rated, it is deemed to have a moderate risk level. The dam does not have an Emergency Action Plan, but its risk management measures are not specified.

Overall, Ellison Lake Dam serves as a vital structure for recreational activities in the area, offering a serene location for water resource and climate enthusiasts to enjoy. With its historical significance and engineering design, the dam stands as a testament to the importance of water management in ensuring the sustainability of our natural resources.

Year Completed

1947

Dam Length

288

Dam Height

30.5

River Or Stream

Name unknown

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

5.5

Hydraulic Height

29.5

Nid Storage

97.7

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

31
       
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.