O'Neal Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

O'Neal Lake Dam, also known as Lake Howell Dam, is a private-owned structure located in Stone Mountain, Georgia.


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Summary

This earth dam primarily serves the purpose of recreation, with a height of 30 feet and a hydraulic height of 25 feet. The dam has a normal storage capacity of 20 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 2 acres, with a drainage area of 92 acres. Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, the dam has a moderate risk assessment rating of 3, indicating the need for ongoing monitoring and management measures.

The dam features an uncontrolled spillway type and outlet gates, with no associated locks for navigation. It has not undergone any modifications and its last inspection was conducted in May 2005, with a scheduled inspection frequency of every 5 years. The overall condition of the dam is currently not rated, emphasizing the importance of regular assessments to ensure its structural integrity and safety. While the dam is not under state regulation or permitting, it falls within the jurisdiction of Georgia and is subject to state inspections.

Given its key role in recreational activities and its moderate risk assessment, stakeholders and enthusiasts in water resources and climate should closely monitor O'Neal Lake Dam for any potential changes in condition or hazard levels. With its location in DeKalb County, Georgia, and the surrounding area's reliance on the dam for leisure purposes, it is essential to prioritize the ongoing maintenance and management of this vital water resource infrastructure. The dam's design characteristics, storage capacity, and risk profile highlight the importance of sustainable practices and proactive measures to safeguard its functionality and ensure the safety of the local community.

Dam Length

300

Dam Height

30

River Or Stream

UNKNOWN

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

2

Hydraulic Height

25

Drainage Area

92

Nid Storage

30

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

30
       
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.