Lake Garrett Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lake Garrett Dam in Columbus, Georgia, stands as a private recreational haven completed in 1945.


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Summary

This Earth-type dam, with a height of 17.6 feet and a length of 605 feet, holds a storage capacity of 182.8 acre-feet. Despite its low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, the dam lacks a formal condition rating and emergency action plan, raising some concerns for potential future management.

Owned privately and situated in Harris County, Lake Garrett Dam serves primarily for recreational purposes, offering an expansive surface area of 14 acres for water enthusiasts to enjoy. While the dam's condition remains unrated, its regular inspection schedule suggests ongoing monitoring and maintenance efforts to ensure its structural integrity and safety for visitors. With its uncontrolled spillway and outlets, the dam provides a tranquil escape for those seeking outdoor adventures in the heart of Georgia.

As an Earth-type structure with a buttress core, Lake Garrett Dam presents a unique blend of natural beauty and man-made engineering. While it currently operates without state regulation or permitting, its location within the Mobile District underscores its significance within the regional water resource network. With a history dating back to the mid-20th century, the dam stands as a testament to the balance between human recreation and environmental conservation in the dynamic landscape of Georgia's waterways.

Year Completed

1945

Dam Length

605

Dam Height

17.6

River Or Stream

Unknown

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

14

Hydraulic Height

17.2

Nid Storage

182.8

Structural Height

17.2

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

18
       
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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.