Ragan Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Bayley Reservoir South Mountain
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Ragan Lake Dam, located in Early, Georgia, was completed in 1961 by the Soil Conservation Service (SCS) and is primarily used for recreation purposes.
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Summary
This earth dam, with a height of 9 meters and a hydraulic height of 9.4 meters, impounds Bay Pole Branch to create a reservoir with a normal storage capacity of 33.6 million cubic meters. The dam spans 564 meters in length and covers an area of 11 hectares, serving as a popular spot for outdoor activities in the region.
Despite being privately owned, Ragan Lake Dam falls under the jurisdiction of the state of Georgia and is not regulated or inspected by any state agency. With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, the dam has not been evaluated for condition assessment and does not have an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) in place. The lack of state permitting, inspection, and enforcement raises concerns about the long-term safety and maintenance of this structure, especially given its age and the potential impact of climate change on water resources in the region.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is important to monitor the status of dams like Ragan Lake Dam to ensure their safety and the protection of surrounding communities and ecosystems. With its uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, it is crucial for stakeholders to advocate for regular inspections, risk assessments, and emergency preparedness measures to mitigate potential hazards and safeguard the sustainability of this recreational water resource in Georgia.
Year Completed |
1961 |
Dam Length |
564 |
Dam Height |
9 |
River Or Stream |
BAY POLE BRANCH |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
11 |
Hydraulic Height |
9.4 |
Drainage Area |
362 |
Nid Storage |
72.6 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
9 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Janes Reservoir
|
||
Jane's Reservoir Campground
|
||
Reservoir C
|
||
Reservoir C Campground
|
Telephone Flat
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