Amberlake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Amberlake Dam, located in Fayette, Georgia, stands as a testament to the engineering prowess of its designer, Ed Koons.


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Summary

Completed in 1984, this private-owned earth dam serves primarily for recreational purposes, offering a serene escape for water resource and climate enthusiasts. With a dam height of 28.1 feet and a maximum storage capacity of 341 acre-feet, the dam's low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment make it a safe and secure structure.

Situated on Pelham Creek, this 660-foot-long dam boasts a surface area of 20.2 acres and a normal storage capacity of 212 acre-feet. Despite being in a state-jurisdiction area without state permitting requirements, the dam undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity. While it is categorized as "not rated" in terms of condition assessment, the dam's uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates contribute to its efficient water management system.

Amberlake Dam, with its picturesque surroundings and recreational offerings, serves as a tranquil oasis in Fayette, Georgia. As water enthusiasts and climate advocates appreciate the beauty and functionality of this structure, its low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment provide reassurance of its safety and stability. With its rich history and continued maintenance, Amberlake Dam remains a vital part of the local ecosystem, offering a harmonious blend of leisure and environmental conservation.

Year Completed

1984

Dam Length

660

Dam Height

28.1

River Or Stream

PELHAM CR.

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

20.2

Hydraulic Height

26.6

Nid Storage

341

Structural Height

26.6

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

28
       
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.