Mccards Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
McCards Lake Dam in Georgia, completed in 1960, stands as a testament to human ingenuity in harnessing water resources for recreational purposes.
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Summary
This private-owned earth dam, with a height of 22 feet and a length of 414 feet, primarily serves as a recreational spot for visitors to enjoy its serene surroundings and water activities. Located in the Ebenezer Church Environs in Pike County, Georgia, the dam boasts a maximum storage capacity of 119 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 70 acre-feet, covering an 8-acre surface area.
Despite its low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, McCards Lake Dam has not been rated for its condition assessment. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, with no associated locks for navigation. While the dam has not undergone recent inspections since July 2007, its emergency action plan status and risk management measures remain unspecified. As a crucial part of the Savannah District's water resource infrastructure, McCards Lake Dam continues to play a vital role in providing recreational opportunities and contributing to the region's water resource management efforts.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, McCards Lake Dam represents a fascinating intersection of human intervention in natural landscapes. With its tranquil surroundings and moderate risk profile, the dam serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between harnessing water resources for recreational activities and ensuring the safety and sustainability of such structures. As discussions around water resource management and climate change intensify, the role of dams like McCards Lake Dam in Georgia will continue to be scrutinized for their impact on local ecosystems and communities.
Year Completed |
1960 |
Dam Length |
414 |
Dam Height |
22 |
River Or Stream |
UNKNOWN |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
8 |
Hydraulic Height |
20 |
Drainage Area |
230 |
Nid Storage |
119 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
22 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Shoal Creek At Shoal Creek Rd
|
17cfs |
Flint River Near Griffin
|
341cfs |
Flint River Near Culloden
|
1240cfs |
Line Creek Near Senoia
|
24cfs |
Flint River Near Lovejoy
|
95cfs |
Ocmulgee River Near Jackson
|
1600cfs |
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.
Mccards Lake Dam