James Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

James Lake Dam, located in Harris City, Georgia, is a privately owned structure on Kendall Creek primarily used for recreation.


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Summary

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
       
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.