Barton Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Barton Lake Dam, also known as Etheridge Lake Dam, is a private dam located in Sun Hill, Georgia.
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Summary
Constructed in 1955 by designer Owen Etheridge, this earth dam stands at 18 feet high and stretches 405 feet in length. With a primary purpose of recreation, the dam provides a storage capacity of 144 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 13 acres. The dam is situated on Scott Branch, within the Charleston District, and is not regulated by the state.
Despite being categorized as having a low hazard potential, Barton Lake Dam's risk assessment indicates a moderate level of risk. The dam has not been inspected since January 2003, with an inspection frequency of every 5 years. While the condition assessment is listed as "Not Rated," the dam's emergency action plan (EAP) status is unclear. With uncontrolled spillways and outlet gates, the dam is designed to handle the normal drainage area of 1425 acres, with a maximum storage capacity of 144 acre-feet.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Barton Lake Dam offers a glimpse into the intersection of human-designed structures and natural environments. As a private recreation dam, its role in managing water resources and potential risks underscores the importance of regular inspections and maintenance to ensure safety and sustainability. With its historical significance and unique design features, Barton Lake Dam serves as a reminder of the complex relationship between human activities and the ecosystems they interact with.
Year Completed |
1955 |
Dam Length |
405 |
Dam Height |
18 |
River Or Stream |
SCOTT BRANCH |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
13 |
Drainage Area |
1425 |
Nid Storage |
144 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
18 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Williamson Swamp Creek At Davisboro
|
83cfs |
Buffalo Creek At Ga 272
|
145cfs |
Oconee River Near Oconee
|
1430cfs |
Oconee River At Avant Mine
|
846cfs |
Oconee River At Dublin
|
2420cfs |
Oconee River At Milledgeville
|
635cfs |
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.
Barton Lake Dam