Connell Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Connell Lake Dam, located in Sale City, Georgia, was completed in 1956 for the primary purpose of irrigation.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

This private earth dam stands at a height of 8.4 feet and has a maximum storage capacity of 178 acre-feet. With a low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, the dam poses a manageable risk to the surrounding area.

Despite its age, Connell Lake Dam is regularly inspected, with the last assessment conducted in June 2018. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, making it essential for maintaining proper water levels and ensuring the safety of downstream areas. While the dam is not currently regulated by the state, it is under state jurisdiction and subject to periodic inspections to assess its structural integrity.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Connell Lake Dam serves as a critical infrastructure for supporting irrigation in the Mitchell County region. Its construction marked a significant milestone in harnessing water resources for agricultural purposes, highlighting the importance of sustainable water management practices in mitigating potential risks associated with dam structures.

Year Completed

1956

Dam Length

490

Dam Height

8.4

River Or Stream

Unknown

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

27

Hydraulic Height

8.2

Nid Storage

178

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

8
       
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.