Lawson Lake Dam West Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lawson Lake Dam West, located in Brooks County, Georgia, serves multiple purposes including fire protection and providing a habitat for small fish.


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Summary

Built in 1970, this earth dam spans 620 feet in length and reaches a height of 14.8 feet. With a storage capacity of 161 acre-feet and a surface area of 14.5 acres, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region.

Despite being privately owned, Lawson Lake Dam West is regulated by the state of Georgia and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity. With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, the dam is considered to be in good condition. While it currently operates with uncontrolled spillways and outlet gates, the dam's risk management measures are being continuously evaluated to meet safety guidelines.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will appreciate the ecological significance of Lawson Lake Dam West, as it not only provides essential services for fire protection and wildlife habitat but also contributes to the overall water management strategy in the area. With its strategic location along Pike Branch and its moderate risk assessment rating, the dam serves as a key infrastructure for maintaining water quality and quantity in Brooks County, Georgia.

Year Completed

1970

Dam Length

620

Dam Height

14.8

River Or Stream

PIKE BRANCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

14.5

Hydraulic Height

13.5

Drainage Area

2750

Nid Storage

161

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

15
       
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.