Pierce Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Pierce Lake Dam, located in Arlington, Georgia, was completed in 1973 and serves primarily for recreational purposes.


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Summary

This privately owned Earth dam stands at a height of 8.7 feet and has a storage capacity of 637 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 179 acre-feet. The dam's primary purpose is to provide recreational opportunities for visitors, offering a surface area of 83.2 acres for activities such as boating, fishing, and picnicking.

Despite being a privately owned structure, Pierce Lake Dam falls under state jurisdiction, with no regulatory agency overseeing its operations or inspections. The dam's hazard potential is categorized as undetermined, with a moderate risk assessment rating of 3 out of 5. While the overall condition of the dam is not rated, it is important to note that the last inspection took place in December 2004. With an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, the dam's risk management measures and emergency preparedness status remain unclear.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Pierce Lake Dam offers a unique opportunity to explore the intersection of human-made structures and environmental conservation. As a recreational feature in the Calhoun County landscape, the dam's presence highlights the delicate balance between human enjoyment and environmental stewardship in our changing climate. Continued monitoring and assessment of Pierce Lake Dam will be crucial in ensuring its safety and longevity for future generations to enjoy.

Year Completed

1973

Dam Height

8.7

River Or Stream

UNKNOWN

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

83.2

Nid Storage

637

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Undetermined

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

9
       
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.