O'Quinn Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
O'Quinn Lake Dam, located in Wheeler, Georgia, was completed in 1970 and serves as a recreational attraction in the Alamo Environs area.
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Summary
With a primary purpose of recreation, this private earth dam stands at a height of 17 feet and has a length of 515 feet, creating a reservoir with a storage capacity of 164 acre-feet. The dam overlooks a surface area of 17 acres and drains a watershed of 640 acres, providing a serene environment for water resource and climate enthusiasts to explore.
Despite being unregulated by the state, O'Quinn Lake Dam has a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating. The last inspection in July 2016 deemed the dam to be in satisfactory condition, with its emergency action plan and inundation maps still pending preparation. The dam's uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates contribute to its recreational appeal, offering visitors a picturesque setting for outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, and wildlife observation. With its tranquil surroundings and moderate risk management measures, O'Quinn Lake Dam remains a popular destination for nature lovers and water recreation enthusiasts in Georgia.
As part of the Savannah District, O'Quinn Lake Dam falls under the jurisdiction of the US Army Corps of Engineers, ensuring that it meets federal safety standards and operational guidelines. While the dam's associated structures are limited, its earth core construction and buttress foundation contribute to its stability and resilience against potential hazards. With the support of federal agencies and periodic inspections, the dam continues to provide a safe and enjoyable environment for visitors to appreciate the beauty of Georgia's water resources amidst the challenges of climate change.
Year Completed |
1970 |
Dam Length |
515 |
Dam Height |
17 |
River Or Stream |
UNKNOWN |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
17 |
Drainage Area |
640 |
Nid Storage |
164 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
17 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Oconee River Near Mount Vernon
|
1410cfs |
Turnpike Creek Near Mcrae
|
0cfs |
Ocmulgee River At Lumber City
|
2030cfs |
Oconee River At Dublin
|
2820cfs |
Altamaha River Near Baxley
|
3230cfs |
Ohoopee River Near Reidsville
|
83cfs |
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.
O'Quinn Lake Dam