Bristol Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Bristol Lake Dam, located in Duluth, Georgia, is a local government-owned structure on Sweetwater Creek.


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Summary

This Earth dam stands at a height of 16.8 feet and has a hydraulic height of 14.2 feet, with a length of 315 feet. With a capacity to store 68 acre-feet of water, it serves as a critical infrastructure for water resource management in the area.

Despite being unregulated by the state, Bristol Lake Dam is considered to have a moderate risk level, with an undetermined hazard potential and a condition assessment of "Not Rated". The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, highlighting its importance for flood control and water retention. Although the dam's emergency action plan status and risk management measures are not specified, its role in mitigating downstream risks and ensuring water security for the community cannot be understated.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Bristol Lake Dam represents a vital piece of infrastructure that plays a crucial role in managing water resources in Gwinnett County, Georgia. Its location on Sweetwater Creek, coupled with its moderate risk level, underscores the importance of regular inspections and maintenance to ensure its continued functionality and safeguard against potential hazards. As climate change continues to impact water availability and quality, the resilience of structures like Bristol Lake Dam will be essential in adapting to evolving environmental challenges.

Dam Length

315

Dam Height

16.8

River Or Stream

Sweetwater Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

6.2

Hydraulic Height

14.2

Nid Storage

68

Structural Height

14.2

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Undetermined

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

17
       
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.