Bay Meadows Lower Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Bay Meadows Lower Lake Dam, located in Coffee County, Georgia, is a privately owned structure primarily used for recreation.


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Summary

This earth dam, with a height of 19.8 feet and a hydraulic height of 17 feet, impounds Bear Creek to create a reservoir with a storage capacity of 4,187.5 acre-feet. The dam, with a length of 1,150 feet, serves as a popular spot for water resource and climate enthusiasts to enjoy various recreational activities in its 320-acre surface area.

Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, Bay Meadows Lower Lake Dam has a moderate risk assessment rating. The dam is not currently rated for its condition, but regular inspections are conducted every five years to ensure its safety. While the dam has uncontrolled spillways and outlet gates, it meets the guidelines for emergency action plans, although specific details about its emergency preparedness are not readily available. Overall, the dam provides a picturesque setting for outdoor activities, but visitors should be aware of the moderate risk associated with its operation.

Dam Length

1150

Dam Height

19.8

River Or Stream

BEAR CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

320

Hydraulic Height

17

Drainage Area

16000

Nid Storage

4187.5

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

20
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.