Elder Lake North Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Elder Lake North Dam in Cedartown, Georgia, stands as a vital water management structure serving primarily for recreation.
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Summary
Constructed in 1979, this earth dam with a buttress core reaches a height of 26 feet and spans 187 feet in length, providing a storage capacity of 90 acre-feet. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam's risk assessment indicates a moderate level of risk, prompting regular inspections every five years to ensure its structural integrity.
Located in Polk County, Georgia, the Elder Lake North Dam is privately owned and regulated by the state, with inspections conducted as per state jurisdiction. With uncontrolled spillways and outlet gates, the dam poses minimal risk but remains subject to ongoing risk management measures. The surrounding area spans 6.5 acres, offering a serene environment for water resource and climate enthusiasts to explore and appreciate the ecological significance of this water management infrastructure.
As part of the Mobile District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, the Elder Lake North Dam is a key feature contributing to the local water management system. Although not federally owned, the dam plays a crucial role in regulating water levels and ensuring the safety of the surrounding community. With a rich history dating back to its completion in 1979, this dam continues to serve as a testament to responsible water resource management and the importance of maintaining infrastructure for both practical and recreational purposes.
Year Completed |
1979 |
Dam Length |
187 |
Dam Height |
26 |
River Or Stream |
Unknown |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
6.5 |
Nid Storage |
90 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
26 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Cedar Creek At Ga Ave At Cedartown
|
5cfs |
Cedar Creek Near Cedartown
|
90cfs |
Tallapoosa River Below Tallapoosa
|
107cfs |
Coosa River Near Rome
|
3930cfs |
Terrapin Creek At Ellisville Al
|
126cfs |
Etowah River At Ga 1 Loop
|
2150cfs |
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.
Elder Lake North Dam