Extension Research Center Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Decatur, Georgia, the Extension Research Center Lake Dam serves as a crucial water resource for irrigation purposes.


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Summary

Built in 1974, this earth dam stands at a height of 29 feet and spans a length of 645 feet, with a maximum storage capacity of 162 acre-feet. Despite being uncontrolled, the spillway type and outlet gates are designed to manage low hazard potential.

The dam, managed by the state of Georgia, is under regular inspection with a frequency of every 5 years. While the condition assessment is currently not rated, the risk assessment indicates a moderate level of risk. The dam's proximity to the Savannah District of the US Army Corps of Engineers ensures additional oversight, although it is not directly owned or funded by federal agencies.

With its strategic location and vital role in irrigation, the Extension Research Center Lake Dam stands as a testament to sustainable water management practices in the region. Climate and water resource enthusiasts can appreciate the engineering and regulatory measures in place to ensure the safety and efficiency of this essential infrastructure for the local community.

Year Completed

1974

Dam Length

645

Dam Height

29

River Or Stream

UNKNOWN

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

10

Hydraulic Height

25

Nid Storage

162

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.