Bates Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Bates Lake Dam, located in Pike, Georgia, on Mountain Creek, is a privately owned structure primarily used for recreation.
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Summary
Completed in 1968, this earth dam stands at a height of 24 feet and has a storage capacity of 125 acre-feet. With a surface area of 8 acres and a drainage area of 100 square miles, Bates Lake Dam offers a serene setting for water resource and climate enthusiasts to explore and appreciate the natural beauty of the surrounding environment.
Despite being categorized as having a low hazard potential, Bates Lake Dam has not been rated for its condition assessment, and the last inspection took place in June 2002. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, with no associated locks. Its risk assessment is considered moderate, highlighting the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure the safety and integrity of the structure. With its picturesque location and potential for outdoor recreation, Bates Lake Dam serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between human development and environmental conservation in the face of changing climatic conditions.
As a valuable resource in the Savannah District, Bates Lake Dam offers a glimpse into the intersection of water management, recreational opportunities, and infrastructure resilience. While the dam is not under federal regulation or permitting, its role in providing a recreational outlet underscores the importance of balancing human needs with environmental stewardship. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the complexities of structures like Bates Lake Dam can shed light on the challenges and opportunities inherent in managing our natural resources in a sustainable and resilient manner.
Year Completed |
1968 |
Dam Length |
540 |
Dam Height |
24 |
River Or Stream |
MOUNTAIN CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
8 |
Hydraulic Height |
23 |
Drainage Area |
100 |
Nid Storage |
125 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
24 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Flint River Near Griffin
|
341cfs |
Shoal Creek At Shoal Creek Rd
|
17cfs |
Line Creek Near Senoia
|
24cfs |
Flint River Near Culloden
|
1240cfs |
Flint River Near Lovejoy
|
95cfs |
Yellowjacket Cr At Hammett Rd Blw Hogansville
|
64cfs |
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.
Bates Lake Dam