Loch Highland Lake (Lower) Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Loch Highland Lake (Lower) Dam, located in Roswell, Georgia, is a crucial structure that serves the primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

Built in 1973 by Byrne-Helton & Associates, this earth dam stands at a height of 28 feet, with a hydraulic height of 22 feet. The dam boasts a storage capacity of 560 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 28.5 acres, drawing water from the Sweat Mountain Creek for its reservoir.

Despite its satisfactory condition assessment, Loch Highland Lake (Lower) Dam poses a high hazard potential due to its uncontrolled spillway and uncontrolled outlet gates. The dam's drainage area spans 2333 acres, making it imperative to monitor its risk management measures closely. The structure is regulated by the Georgia SAFE DAMS PROGRAM, which conducts regular inspections every two years to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Loch Highland Lake (Lower) Dam presents an intriguing case study in dam management and environmental stewardship. With a moderate risk assessment score of 3, this dam serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between human recreation and the preservation of natural water resources in the face of climate change and increasing water demands. As efforts to mitigate risks and improve emergency preparedness continue, Loch Highland Lake (Lower) Dam stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water management practices in safeguarding our communities and ecosystems.

Year Completed

1973

Dam Length

390

Dam Height

28

River Or Stream

Sweat Mountain Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

28.5

Hydraulic Height

22

Drainage Area

2333

Nid Storage

560

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

28
       
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.