Heards Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Candler Lake Dam Cloats Pond Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Heards Lake Dam, located in Buena Vista, Georgia, is a private earth dam primarily used for recreation purposes.
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Summary
Standing at 19 feet tall with a hydraulic height of 20.1 feet and a length of 675 feet, the dam holds a maximum storage capacity of 269 acre-feet and a normal storage of 151 acre-feet. With a surface area of 21.1 acres, the dam poses a low hazard potential and has not been rated for condition assessment.
Although the dam is not state-regulated or permitted, it undergoes regular inspections every five years, with the last inspection conducted in October 2017. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, with associated structures and emergency action plans currently unlisted. Despite its moderate risk assessment rating, Heards Lake Dam remains a popular recreational spot for enthusiasts to enjoy water activities and scenic views in the Marion County area.
Dam Length |
675 |
Dam Height |
19 |
River Or Stream |
Unknown |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
21.1 |
Hydraulic Height |
20.1 |
Nid Storage |
269 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
20 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Upatoi Creek Near Columbus
|
275cfs |
Chattahoochee River At Us 280
|
1990cfs |
Hannahatchee Creek At Union
|
107cfs |
Uchee Creek Near Fort Mitchell
|
118cfs |
Kinchafoonee Creek At Preston
|
220cfs |
Muckalee Creek Near Americus
|
222cfs |
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.
Heards Lake Dam