Bell Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Norman Bell Luck Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 12, 2025
Bell Lake Dam, located in Wrightsville, Georgia, was completed in 1940 and serves as a recreational resource for the area.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
This earth dam, with a height of 12 feet and a length of 420 feet, provides a normal storage capacity of 36 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 72.8 acre-feet. The dam is primarily used for recreational purposes, with an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates.
While Bell Lake Dam has a low hazard potential and is currently rated as "Not Rated" in terms of condition assessment, it is important to note that the dam is not state-regulated or inspected. Despite this, the risk assessment for the dam is considered moderate, highlighting the need for ongoing monitoring and potentially implementing risk management measures. The surrounding area, including Johnson County, could benefit from increased awareness and preparedness in the event of an emergency related to the dam.
Enthusiasts of water resources and climate may find Bell Lake Dam to be an intriguing case study, given its historical significance and the potential risks associated with its current condition. As a private-owned dam in a state with no regulatory oversight, the dam presents unique challenges and opportunities for proactive management and community engagement. With its picturesque location and recreational value, Bell Lake Dam serves as a reminder of the importance of responsible stewardship of our water resources in the face of changing climate conditions.
Year Completed |
1940 |
Dam Length |
420 |
Dam Height |
12 |
River Or Stream |
UNKNOWN |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
9 |
Hydraulic Height |
11.5 |
Drainage Area |
55 |
Nid Storage |
72.8 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
12 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Oconee River Near Oconee
|
895cfs |
Oconee River At Dublin
|
1070cfs |
Buffalo Creek At Ga 272
|
54cfs |
Williamson Swamp Creek At Davisboro
|
56cfs |
Oconee River At Avant Mine
|
614cfs |
Ogeechee River At Midville
|
674cfs |
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.
Bell Lake Dam