Paulk Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Sumner Lake Dam Betts Pond Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Located in Barneyville, Georgia, Paulk Lake Dam, also known as Grist Lake Dam, serves a primary purpose of irrigation and stands as a testament to ingenuity and engineering.
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Summary
Constructed in 1940, this earth dam with a buttress core spans 360 feet in length and stands at a height of 16.2 feet, offering a storage capacity of 115 acre-feet with a normal storage level of 66 acre-feet. Despite being privately owned and not regulated by the state, the dam on Doe Branch is inspected regularly to ensure its structural integrity and low hazard potential.
Surrounded by the picturesque landscape of Cook County, Georgia, Paulk Lake Dam not only provides vital irrigation water for agricultural activities but also adds to the local ecosystem with its surface area of 11 acres. While the dam has an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, it has not undergone significant modifications since its completion. With a moderate risk assessment rating and a history of regular inspections, the dam is a vital resource for the community and a symbol of responsible water resource management.
As climate change continues to impact water resources, the need for sustainable infrastructure like Paulk Lake Dam becomes increasingly important. With its historic significance, efficient design, and low hazard potential, the dam stands as a model for balancing human needs with environmental stewardship. As water resource and climate enthusiasts explore the intricacies of this structure, they can appreciate the careful planning and engineering that went into creating a reliable water source for the surrounding area in the face of changing climate patterns.
Year Completed |
1940 |
Dam Length |
360 |
Dam Height |
16.2 |
River Or Stream |
DOE BRANCH |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
11 |
Hydraulic Height |
15.8 |
Drainage Area |
780 |
Nid Storage |
115 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
16 |
Seasonal Comparison
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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.
Paulk Lake Dam