Ford Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Ford Lake Dam, located in Ball Ground, Georgia, is a privately owned structure primarily utilized for recreational purposes.


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Summary

This earth dam, with a height of 29 feet and a hydraulic height of 22 feet, serves to create a reservoir with a maximum storage capacity of 80 acre-feet. The dam, constructed with a buttress core type, spans a length of 255 feet and covers a surface area of 6 acres.

Despite being classified with a low hazard potential, Ford Lake Dam has a moderate risk assessment rating. The dam's condition remains unrated, with the last inspection conducted in May 2019. While the dam is not state regulated, it falls under the jurisdiction of the state of Georgia, where it is subject to periodic inspections to ensure its structural integrity and safety.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts may be intrigued by Ford Lake Dam's unique design features and its role in creating a recreational water body in Cherokee County. The dam's location along an unnamed river or stream adds to its allure, providing a tranquil escape for locals and visitors alike. As discussions around water resource management and climate resilience continue to gain importance, understanding the infrastructure and risk factors associated with dams like Ford Lake Dam becomes increasingly crucial in ensuring the safety and sustainability of our water resources.

Dam Length

255

Dam Height

29

River Or Stream

Name unknown

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

6

Hydraulic Height

22

Drainage Area

146

Nid Storage

80

Structural Height

22

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

29
       
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.