Mahaffey Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Mahaffey Lake Dam, located in Harris, Georgia, was completed in 1944 and serves as a private recreational spot for water and climate enthusiasts.


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Summary

Standing at a height of 32.6 feet and stretching out over 695 feet in length, this earth dam holds a storage capacity of 216.9 acre-feet, with a surface area of 12.8 acres. The dam's purpose is primarily for recreation, offering a serene retreat for fishing, boating, and other water-based activities.

Despite being a privately owned structure, Mahaffey Lake Dam is subject to state inspection and regulation, ensuring its safety and compliance with standards. With a low hazard potential and moderate risk level, the dam is maintained at a satisfactory condition, although its emergency action plan and risk management measures remain unspecified. The dam's location in the Midland Environs, along with its uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, further adds to its appeal for nature enthusiasts seeking a peaceful escape in the heart of Georgia's picturesque landscapes.

Year Completed

1944

Dam Length

695

Dam Height

32.6

River Or Stream

UNKNOWN

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

12.8

Drainage Area

130

Nid Storage

216.9

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

33
       
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.