Whippoorwill Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Whippoorwill Lake Dam, located in Harris, Georgia, stands as a testament to both the beauty and the potential dangers of water resource management.


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Summary

Built in 1950 for recreational purposes, this earth dam with a height of 34 feet overlooks Mountain Creek, providing a serene surface area of 9 acres for visitors to enjoy. However, its high hazard potential and fair condition assessment serve as reminders of the responsibility that comes with regulating such structures.

Managed by a private owner, Whippoorwill Lake Dam falls under the jurisdiction of the GA-SAFE DAMS PROGRAM, with the state of Georgia overseeing its permitting, inspection, and enforcement. The dam's risk assessment is classified as moderate, pointing to the need for ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure the safety of the surrounding community. Despite its age, Whippoorwill Lake Dam remains a vital part of the local landscape, offering both recreational opportunities and critical lessons in water resource management and climate resilience.

Year Completed

1950

Dam Length

512

Dam Height

34

River Or Stream

MOUNTAIN CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

9

Drainage Area

160

Nid Storage

117

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

34
       
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.
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Area Campgrounds

Location Reservations Toilets
Whippoorwill Lake Dam616 Preview 616
Whippoorwill Lake Dam615 Preview 615
Whippoorwill Lake Dam614 Preview 614
Whippoorwill Lake Dam612 Preview 612
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Whippoorwill Lake Dam613 Preview 613