Lake Erma Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lake Erma Dam, located in Henry, Georgia, was completed in 1961 and serves as a vital water resource for the surrounding area.


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Summary

This private-owned dam stands at a height of 37 feet and spans 746 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 801 acre-feet. Primarily used for recreation, the dam holds a normal storage volume of 588 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 72 acres.

Despite its fair condition assessment in 2017, Lake Erma Dam poses a high hazard potential due to its uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates. The dam is subject to state regulation and inspection, with the Georgia SAFE DAMS PROGRAM overseeing its operation and enforcement. In the event of an emergency, it is crucial that risk management measures are in place to mitigate potential risks and ensure the safety of nearby residents and visitors.

With a moderate risk assessment rating of 3, Lake Erma Dam remains a significant feature in the region's water resource infrastructure. Its importance for recreation and water storage highlights the need for regular inspections and maintenance to uphold its structural integrity and prevent any potential hazards. As a key component of the local ecosystem, the dam plays a crucial role in maintaining water levels and supporting the surrounding environment.

Year Completed

1961

Dam Length

746

Dam Height

37

River Or Stream

UNKNOWN

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

72

Drainage Area

590

Nid Storage

801

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

37
       
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.