Patterson Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Patterson Lake Dam, located in Sylvester, Georgia, is a privately owned earth dam primarily used for recreation.


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Summary

Standing at a height of 19.2 feet and with a storage capacity of 128 acre-feet, the dam offers a surface area of 11 acres for enthusiasts to enjoy. While the dam's hazard potential is rated as low, its risk assessment indicates a moderate level of risk, highlighting the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance.

Despite its recreational focus, Patterson Lake Dam also plays a role in water resource management, with a drainage area of 220 square miles contributing to its storage capacity. The dam's uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates further emphasize the need for careful oversight and emergency preparedness. While the dam's condition is currently not rated, regular inspections are conducted every 5 years to ensure its safety and functionality.

With its picturesque location and vital role in water management, Patterson Lake Dam stands as a significant asset in Worth County, Georgia. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the dam's importance in providing recreational opportunities and contributing to local water supply needs is likely to become even more pronounced. Enthusiasts and conservationists alike can appreciate the blend of utility and beauty that Patterson Lake Dam offers to the community.

Dam Length

705

Dam Height

19.2

River Or Stream

UNKNOWN

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

11

Hydraulic Height

18.2

Drainage Area

220

Nid Storage

128

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.