Bernstein Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Bernstein Lake Dam, located in Clarke, Georgia, is a private earth dam primarily used for recreation purposes.


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Summary

Standing at a height of 29 feet with a hydraulic height of 23 feet, this dam boasts a storage capacity of 149 acre-feet with a normal storage level of 111 acre-feet. The dam, constructed with a buttress core type, spans 1000 feet in length and covers a surface area of 11 acres.

Although the dam has a low hazard potential and is currently rated as "Not Rated" in terms of condition assessment, it has not been inspected since August 2004. Despite the lack of recent inspections, the risk assessment for Bernstein Lake Dam is moderate, indicating potential concerns that may need to be addressed in the future. As a recreational water resource in Georgia, the dam plays a crucial role in providing outdoor enjoyment to visitors while also serving as a vital part of the local ecosystem.

As climate change continues to impact water resources and infrastructure, it is essential for stakeholders and regulatory agencies to monitor and maintain dams like Bernstein Lake Dam to ensure their safety and functionality. With proper inspections, risk assessments, and maintenance measures in place, this dam can continue to be a valuable asset for both recreation and water management in the region.

Dam Length

1000

Dam Height

29

River Or Stream

UNKNOWN

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

11

Hydraulic Height

23

Drainage Area

90

Nid Storage

149

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

29
       
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.