Willingham Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Willingham Lake Dam, located in Cotton, Georgia, was completed in 1971 for the primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

This private earth dam stands at a height of 19.2 feet and has a storage capacity of 476 acre-feet. The dam spans 740 feet in length and covers a surface area of 40 acres, serving as a popular spot for outdoor activities in the Mitchell County area.

Despite its low hazard potential, Willingham Lake Dam is subject to regular state inspections to ensure its safety and integrity. The dam's spillway type is uncontrolled, and it has an uncontrolled outlet gate. The surrounding area benefits from the dam's moderate risk management measures, with a moderate risk assessment rating of 3. The Savannah District of the US Army Corps of Engineers oversees the dam, highlighting its importance in water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the region.

Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will find Willingham Lake Dam a fascinating structure to explore. Its role in providing recreational opportunities while managing water resources in the Mitchell County area showcases the intersection of human development and environmental conservation. With its moderate risk assessment and regular state inspections, the dam represents a key component of the region's infrastructure for both recreation and water management purposes.

Year Completed

1971

Dam Length

740

Dam Height

19.2

River Or Stream

Name unknown

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

40

Hydraulic Height

19

Drainage Area

1010

Nid Storage

476

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

19
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No 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

High
Dams 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.