Elks Lake West Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Elks Lake West in Valdosta, Georgia, is a privately owned dam completed in 1968 for recreational purposes.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
The earth dam stands at a height of 23.1 feet and has a storage capacity of 101.25 acre-feet. Despite its uncontrolled spillway and low hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment is not rated, highlighting a potential need for further inspection and maintenance.
Located in Wilcox County, Elks Lake West offers a serene setting for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy activities such as fishing, boating, and bird-watching. The dam's moderate risk assessment (rating 3 out of 5) suggests a need for risk management measures to ensure the safety and sustainability of the reservoir. While the dam has not been modified in recent years, ongoing monitoring and emergency preparedness are essential to mitigate potential hazards and safeguard the surrounding community.
With its picturesque location and recreational opportunities, Elks Lake West serves as a valuable water resource for the region. As climate change continues to impact water systems, it is crucial for stakeholders to prioritize the safety and maintenance of dams like Elks Lake West to preserve their ecological and recreational benefits for future generations.
Year Completed |
1968 |
Dam Height |
23.1 |
River Or Stream |
UNKNOWN |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Nid Storage |
101.25 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
23 |
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.
Elks Lake West