Lake Helen Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Lake Helen Dam, also known as Sweat Lake Dam, is a private-owned structure located in Treutlen, Georgia.


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Summary

Completed in 1944, this earthen dam stands at a height of 17 feet and has a storage capacity of 147 acre-feet, primarily serving recreational purposes on Hurricane Branch. With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment, the dam has not been rated for its condition, but it undergoes inspections every five years to ensure its safety.

Situated in a picturesque setting, Lake Helen Dam offers a surface area of 12 acres for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy. Despite being uncontrolled, the spillway type and outlet gates of the dam contribute to its functionality. While the structure is not regulated by the state, it falls under the jurisdiction of Georgia and is subject to regular inspections. The dam's location in ORLAND, along with its surrounding natural beauty, make it a captivating spot for water resource and climate enthusiasts to explore.

Overall, Lake Helen Dam serves as a vital component in the recreational landscape of Treutlen, Georgia. Although it may not hold the same level of risk as some other dams, its importance in providing leisure opportunities and maintaining the local ecosystem cannot be understated. As climate and water resource enthusiasts continue to appreciate the beauty and functionality of such structures, Lake Helen Dam stands as a testament to the symbiotic relationship between humans and the environment.

Year Completed

1944

Dam Length

580

Dam Height

17

River Or Stream

HURRICANE BRANCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

12

Hydraulic Height

17

Drainage Area

95

Nid Storage

147

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

17
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.