Bolton Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Smith Lake Dam Belmar Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Bolton Lake Dam, located in Dawson, Georgia, is a private earth dam primarily used for recreational purposes.
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Summary
With a height of 13.8 feet and a hydraulic height of 14.6 feet, the dam stands as a key structure in the area. The dam has a storage capacity of 162 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 73 acre-feet, covering a surface area of 14.8 acres and draining an area of 514 acres.
Managed by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, the dam is classified as having a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment. While it is not currently rated for its condition, inspections are conducted every five years to ensure its safety. The dam operates with uncontrolled spillways and outlet gates, and while it does not have state permitting, it falls under state jurisdiction for inspection purposes.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Bolton Lake Dam offers a fascinating study in private dam management and recreational use in Georgia. Its role in providing leisure activities while also serving as a vital structure for water storage and management showcases the multi-faceted nature of dams in our environment. As efforts continue to monitor and maintain the dam's safety, its presence highlights the importance of responsible dam ownership and the need for sustainable water resource management practices.
Dam Length |
675 |
Dam Height |
13.8 |
River Or Stream |
UNKNOWN |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
14.8 |
Hydraulic Height |
14.6 |
Drainage Area |
514 |
Nid Storage |
162 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
15 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Kinchafoonee Creek Near Dawson
|
531cfs |
Kinchafoonee Creek At Preston
|
220cfs |
Muckalee Creek At Ga 195
|
419cfs |
Muckalee Creek Near Americus
|
222cfs |
Ichawaynochaway Creek At Ga 37
|
332cfs |
Pachitla Creek Near Edison
|
175cfs |
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.
Bolton Lake Dam