Pritchard Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Pritchard Lake Dam, located in Union City, Georgia, was completed in 1959 by the Soil Conservation Service (SCS) and is primarily used for recreational purposes.


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Summary

The earth dam stands at a height of 24.2 feet and has a hydraulic height of 21.5 feet, with a length of 170 feet. The dam has a low hazard potential and is currently classified as being in "Not Rated" condition.

Although the dam is not state regulated, it is inspected regularly, with the last inspection conducted in May 2017. The dam's maximum storage capacity is 117 acre-feet, with a normal storage capacity of 72 acre-feet. The surface area of the reservoir created by the dam is 8.7 acres, with a drainage area of 125 acres. With an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, the dam has a moderate risk assessment rating.

Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will find Pritchard Lake Dam an interesting subject of study, given its unique design features and recreational purpose. The dam's location in Fulton County, Georgia, its low hazard potential, and moderate risk assessment provide a fascinating case for understanding how such structures are managed and maintained. This information serves as a valuable resource for those interested in the intersection of water management, infrastructure, and environmental conservation.

Year Completed

1959

Dam Length

170

Dam Height

24.2

River Or Stream

UNKNOWN

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

8.7

Hydraulic Height

21.5

Drainage Area

125

Nid Storage

117

Structural Height

21.5

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

24
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.