Caron Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Caron Lake Dam, located in Habersham, Georgia, is a privately owned earth dam with a primary purpose of recreation.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Constructed in 1982 by the Soil Conservation Service (SCS), the dam stands at a height of 34 feet and has a hydraulic height of 31 feet. With a storage capacity of 86 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 71 acre-feet, the dam serves as a scenic recreational spot for water resource and climate enthusiasts in the area.

Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, Caron Lake Dam has a moderate risk assessment rating of 3. The dam's condition assessment is listed as "Not Rated," and it has not been inspected since August 2017. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, with no designated emergency action plan or inundation maps prepared. While the risk management measures and emergency protocols for the dam are unclear, the recreational opportunities and picturesque setting of Caron Lake Dam continue to attract visitors to its 6-acre surface area.

For those interested in water resource management and climate impacts on dams, Caron Lake Dam provides a fascinating case study. With its unique design, potential risks, and recreational significance, this earth dam in Georgia offers valuable insights into the intersection of human infrastructure and natural resources. As efforts continue to monitor and assess the condition of Caron Lake Dam, it remains a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts seeking to understand the complexities of balancing recreational enjoyment with environmental stewardship.

Year Completed

1982

Dam Length

512

Dam Height

34

River Or Stream

UNKNOWN

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

6

Hydraulic Height

31

Drainage Area

176

Nid Storage

86

Structural Height

31

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

34
       
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.