Owens Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Owens Lake Dam in Decatur, Georgia, stands as a testament to the importance of water resource management and climate resilience.
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Summary
This private dam, primarily used for recreation, plays a vital role in regulating the flow of water in the area. With a modest height of 18 feet and a storage capacity of 129.2 acre-feet, Owens Lake Dam serves as a low hazard potential structure with a moderate risk assessment. Despite its uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, the dam is inspected regularly to ensure its safety and effectiveness.
Located within the Savannah District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, Owens Lake Dam's Earth core type and buttress foundation make it a sturdy and reliable structure. Although its construction year is unknown, the dam's purpose of recreation highlights the balance between human enjoyment and environmental stewardship. While the dam's condition is not currently rated, its risk management measures and moderate risk assessment demonstrate a proactive approach to maintaining this essential water resource infrastructure for the community.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Owens Lake Dam serves as a focal point for understanding the intersection of infrastructure, recreation, and environmental sustainability. With its uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, the dam presents a unique challenge in managing water flow while ensuring public safety. As climate change continues to impact water resources, structures like Owens Lake Dam will be crucial in adapting to new challenges and preserving access to this essential natural resource for generations to come.
Dam Length |
480 |
Dam Height |
18 |
River Or Stream |
UNKNOWN |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
11.7 |
Hydraulic Height |
17 |
Nid Storage |
129.2 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
18 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Little Attapulgus Creek At Attapulgus
|
24cfs |
Flint River At Bainbridge
|
4570cfs |
Little River Nr Quincy
|
101cfs |
Ochlockonee River Nr Concord
|
79cfs |
Ochlockonee River Nr Havana
|
61cfs |
Little River Nr Midway
|
94cfs |
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.
Owens Lake Dam
Faceville Landing Road Decatur County