Margery Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Margery Lake Dam, also known as Boyle Murder Lake Dam, is a state-owned structure located in Jasper, Georgia, just outside the city of Maxwell Environs.
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Summary
Built in 1974, this Earth dam stands at a height of 20 feet and spans a length of 1065 feet, creating a storage capacity of 585 acre-feet for recreation purposes. Situated on Murder Creek, the dam serves as a popular spot for water enthusiasts and nature lovers, offering a serene setting for outdoor activities.
Despite its low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, Margery Lake Dam is not currently regulated by the state and does not have a formal emergency action plan in place. The dam's condition assessment is listed as "Not Rated," highlighting the need for further evaluation and potential upgrades to ensure its long-term safety and reliability. With a history of uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, the dam presents an interesting case study for water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the management and maintenance of aging infrastructure in rural areas.
As the primary source of recreation in the region, Margery Lake Dam plays a crucial role in providing recreational opportunities for the local community. However, with limited state oversight and no formal regulatory agency in charge of its maintenance, the dam's long-term sustainability remains a topic of interest for those passionate about water resource management and climate resilience. Moving forward, continued monitoring and potential risk management measures may be necessary to ensure the safety and functionality of this vital water resource in Jasper, Georgia.
Year Completed |
1974 |
Dam Length |
1065 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
MURDER CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
52 |
Hydraulic Height |
21 |
Drainage Area |
333 |
Nid Storage |
585 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
21 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Alcovy River Below Covington
|
229cfs |
Ocmulgee River Near Jackson
|
895cfs |
Alcovy River Above Covington
|
183cfs |
Big Haynes Creek At Bald Rock Road
|
58cfs |
Yellow River At Gees Mill Road
|
409cfs |
Little River Near Eatonton
|
126cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Margery Lake Dam
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