Sam Griffin Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Sam Griffin Lake Dam, located in Minter, Georgia, was completed in 1965 and serves as a vital structure for recreational purposes.
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Summary
This earth dam stands at a height of 14 feet and spans a length of 520 feet, with a storage capacity of 475 acre-feet. The dam's primary purpose is to provide a serene setting for water enthusiasts to enjoy activities such as boating, fishing, and picnicking on its surface area of 20 acres.
Despite being classified as a low hazard potential structure with a moderate risk assessment, Sam Griffin Lake Dam has not been inspected since November 2004. The dam is not regulated by the state and does not have a formal emergency action plan in place. While the dam currently meets recreational needs, its lack of recent inspections and emergency preparedness raise concerns for potential risks and the need for enhanced safety measures.
With its picturesque surroundings and ample recreational opportunities, Sam Griffin Lake Dam stands as a valuable asset for the local community. However, increased attention to regular inspections, emergency planning, and risk management measures is essential to ensure the continued safety and enjoyment of this important water resource for both residents and visitors alike.
Year Completed |
1965 |
Dam Length |
520 |
Dam Height |
14 |
River Or Stream |
UNKNOWN |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
20 |
Nid Storage |
475 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
14 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Oconee River At Dublin
|
1030cfs |
Oconee River Near Oconee
|
864cfs |
Oconee River Near Mount Vernon
|
1280cfs |
Buffalo Creek At Ga 272
|
49cfs |
Williamson Swamp Creek At Davisboro
|
52cfs |
Oconee River At Avant Mine
|
606cfs |
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.
Sam Griffin Lake Dam