International Paper Company Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

The International Paper Company Lake Dam in Macon, Georgia, is a privately owned structure designed by RUST ENGINEERING in 1979.


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Summary

This earth dam stands at a height of 21.7 feet and has a hydraulic height of 25.6 feet, serving primarily for tailings storage. With a normal storage capacity of 1,282 acre-feet and a surface area of 130 acres, the dam is classified with a low hazard potential and a high risk assessment of 2.

Despite being located in a state jurisdiction that does not require permitting, this dam is inspected regularly, with the last assessment conducted in May 2018. While its condition has not been rated, the dam's risk management measures and emergency action plans are not specified. With no spillway and a lack of associated structures or outlet gates, the International Paper Company Lake Dam remains a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the resilience and effectiveness of private dam infrastructure in safeguarding against environmental risks and hazards.

Year Completed

1979

Dam Height

21.7

River Or Stream

None

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

130

Hydraulic Height

25.6

Nid Storage

1968

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

26
       
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.