Carter Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Patten Lake Dam Banks Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Carter Lake Dam, located in Lanier, Georgia, was completed in 1960 and serves multiple purposes, including fire protection and as a stock or small fish pond.
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Summary
This private earth dam, with a height of 11 feet and a length of 1210 feet, has a storage capacity of 642 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 88 acres. While the dam has a low hazard potential and is currently not rated in terms of condition assessment, it is inspected every five years to ensure its safety and reliability.
Despite its uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, Carter Lake Dam poses a moderate risk (level 3) and falls under the jurisdiction of the state of Georgia. The dam, designed by an unknown entity, is located in the Jacksonville District and is managed by private owners. While it is not regulated by the state, it undergoes regular inspections to mitigate any potential risks. The dam's primary purpose is to provide essential water resources for fire protection and recreational activities in the area.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts will find Carter Lake Dam a fascinating structure that plays a crucial role in water management in Lanier, Georgia. With its earth construction and moderate risk level, the dam represents a blend of functionality and potential challenges. Its location in a scenic area with a significant drainage area of 505 square miles adds to its importance in the local ecosystem. As efforts continue to ensure the dam's safety and efficiency, it remains a key feature in the region's water resource management and environmental conservation efforts.
Year Completed |
1960 |
Dam Length |
1210 |
Dam Height |
11 |
River Or Stream |
UNKNOWN |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
88 |
Drainage Area |
505 |
Nid Storage |
642 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
11 |
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.
Carter Lake Dam