Wells Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Wells Lake Dam, located in Ellaville, Georgia, was completed in 1972 and serves primarily for irrigation purposes.
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Summary
This private-owned earth dam stands at a height of 49.5 feet with a hydraulic height of 22.3 feet, providing a storage capacity of 64.8 acre-feet. The dam spans 585 feet in length and covers a surface area of 5.5 acres, situated within a drainage area of 56 square miles.
Despite being designated as a low hazard potential structure with a moderate risk assessment rating, Wells Lake Dam has not been inspected since May 2016, with an inspection frequency set at every 5 years. The dam's spillway operates in an uncontrolled manner, and the outlet gates are also classified as uncontrolled. With its condition currently unrated, there is a need for regular monitoring and maintenance to ensure the safety and integrity of the structure in the face of changing climate conditions and potential water resource management challenges.
Enthusiasts of water resources and climate change will find Wells Lake Dam an intriguing case study in understanding the complexities of managing dams for irrigation in rural areas. With its unique design features and historical significance, this dam serves as a critical piece of infrastructure in Schley County, Georgia, highlighting the importance of sustainable water resource management practices in the face of evolving environmental challenges.
Year Completed |
1972 |
Dam Length |
585 |
Dam Height |
49.5 |
River Or Stream |
UNKNOWN |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
5.5 |
Hydraulic Height |
22.3 |
Drainage Area |
56 |
Nid Storage |
64.8 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
50 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Flint River At Ga 26
|
1550cfs |
Muckalee Creek Near Americus
|
115cfs |
Flint River Near Culloden
|
716cfs |
Kinchafoonee Creek At Preston
|
101cfs |
Upatoi Creek Near Columbus
|
172cfs |
Turkey Creek At Byromville
|
12cfs |
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.
Wells Lake Dam