James Lake Dam, located in Harris City, Georgia, is a privately owned structure on Kendall Creek primarily used for recreation.
Wind
Humidity
Built in 1960, the earth dam stands at a height of 37.9 feet and spans 945 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 270 acre-feet. The dam is classified as low hazard potential with a moderate risk assessment rating of 3.
Despite being privately owned, James Lake Dam falls under state jurisdiction and is subject to periodic inspections, the last of which occurred in June 2019. The dam features uncontrolled spillways and outlet gates, reflecting its primarily recreational purpose rather than flood control or water supply management. The surrounding Meriwether County area benefits from the dam's 17-acre surface area and the recreational opportunities it provides.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, James Lake Dam serves as a notable example of a privately owned structure that plays a crucial role in providing recreational opportunities while also managing water resources in the region. Its design and construction details, along with its risk assessment and inspection frequency, offer insights into the management of dams for multiple purposes in the face of changing climate conditions and increasing water demands. As climate change impacts water resources, understanding the role of structures like James Lake Dam becomes essential for sustainable water management in the future.
Year Completed |
1960 |
Dam Length |
945 |
Dam Height |
37.9 |
River Or Stream |
KENDAL CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
17 |
Drainage Area |
275 |
Nid Storage |
270 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
38 |
Yellowjacket Cr At Hammett Rd Blw Hogansville
|
36cfs |
New River At Ga 100
|
55cfs |
Flint River Near Griffin
|
80cfs |
Line Creek Near Senoia
|
30cfs |
Chattahoochee River At West Point
|
5350cfs |
Shoal Creek At Shoal Creek Rd
|
13cfs |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Old Sawmill Campsite
|
||
Bumblebee Ridge Campsite
|
||
Sassafras Hill Campsite
|
||
420
|
||
419
|
||
418
|