Banks Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Lake Irma Dam Howell Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Banks Lake Dam in Lanier, Georgia, is a state-owned structure completed in 1930 primarily for recreation purposes.
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Summary
This Earth dam with a height of 15 feet and a length of 360 feet impounds Mill Creek, creating a surface area of 700 acres and a normal storage capacity of 3,450 acre-feet. With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, the dam is inspected every five years, with the last inspection conducted in March 2016.
Situated within the Jacksonville District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, Banks Lake Dam is not federally owned or regulated. The dam features uncontrolled spillways and outlet gates, with no associated locks. While the dam's condition is currently not rated, its risk management measures and emergency action plans are not specified in the available data. The surrounding area offers ample opportunities for water resource and climate enthusiasts to explore and appreciate this important structure in Georgia's water management system.
For those interested in water resources and climate, Banks Lake Dam presents an intriguing case study for understanding the role of state-owned dams in providing recreational opportunities while managing water resources. Its location in Lanier, Georgia, and its impoundment of Mill Creek make it a focal point for environmental monitoring and risk assessment. As enthusiasts explore the dam and its surrounding area, there is a wealth of information and potential research opportunities to better understand the intersection of water management, dam safety, and climate resilience in this region.
Year Completed |
1930 |
Dam Length |
360 |
Dam Height |
15 |
River Or Stream |
MILL CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
700 |
Drainage Area |
6000 |
Nid Storage |
5018 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
15 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Banks Lake Dam