Mcdonough Reservoir Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Moon Lake Dam Hardeman Lake Dam #2
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
McDonough Reservoir Dam, also known as Walnut Creek Lake Dam, is a critical water supply infrastructure located in Henry, Georgia.
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Summary
Owned and regulated by the local government, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 35 feet and stretches over 660 feet in length. With a storage capacity of 1665 acre-feet and a surface area of 88 acres, it serves the primary purpose of providing water supply to the region.
Despite its satisfactory condition assessment as of February 2019, the dam poses a high hazard potential and is subject to regular state inspection, permitting, and enforcement by the GA-SAFE DAMS PROGRAM. The spillway type is listed as uncontrolled, highlighting the need for careful monitoring and maintenance. While the risk assessment indicates a moderate level of risk, the dam's emergency action plan (EAP) status and inundation maps preparation are currently unspecified, suggesting areas for improvement in emergency preparedness.
In the midst of increasing concerns about water resource management and climate change impacts, the McDonough Reservoir Dam serves as a vital piece of infrastructure ensuring reliable water supply to the surrounding area. With its strategic location on Walnut Creek and a capacity to store 1665 acre-feet of water, this dam plays a crucial role in meeting the water needs of the local community. However, ongoing attention to maintenance, risk assessment, and emergency preparedness will be essential to safeguarding the dam's integrity and the surrounding environment in the face of potential hazards.
Dam Length |
660 |
Dam Height |
35 |
River Or Stream |
WALNUT CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
88 |
Drainage Area |
30.8 |
Nid Storage |
1665 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
35 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
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