Russell Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Russell Lake Dam, located in Berrien, Georgia, was completed in 1967 and serves as a vital resource for recreational activities in the area.


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Summary

The dam, primarily made of earth with a buttress core, stands at a height of 21 feet and has a hydraulic height of 20 feet. With a storage capacity of 329 acre-feet, the dam provides opportunities for fishing, boating, and wildlife observation on its 28-acre surface area.

Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, the dam has not received a condition assessment rating. The last inspection was conducted in May 2016, with a scheduled frequency of every five years. Russell Lake Dam boasts an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, with no associated locks. While not state-regulated, the dam falls under the jurisdiction of Georgia and is owned by the state.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Russell Lake Dam presents an intriguing case study in dam management and recreational use. As a key feature in the local landscape, the dam offers a unique opportunity to explore the intersection of water management, environmental conservation, and public recreation. With its historical significance and potential for future development, Russell Lake Dam is a site worth monitoring for those interested in the dynamic relationship between water resources and community engagement.

Year Completed

1967

Dam Length

1025

Dam Height

21

River Or Stream

UNKNOWN

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

28

Hydraulic Height

20

Drainage Area

65

Nid Storage

329

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

21
       
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.