Phillips Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Phillips Lake Dam in McDuffie, Georgia, is a private structure primarily used for recreation on Fort Creek.


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Summary

The dam, classified as an Earth type with a buttress core, stands at 8 feet tall and spans 560 feet in length. It has a storage capacity of 69 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 27 acre-feet, covering a surface area of 11 acres. While the dam is uncontrolled with both an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, its hazard potential is rated as low, with a moderate risk assessment score of 3.

Despite being privately owned and not regulated by the state, Phillips Lake Dam provides a valuable recreational resource for the local community. With its scenic location and ample storage capacity, the dam offers opportunities for fishing, boating, and other water-based activities. While its condition is currently rated as "Not Rated," the moderate risk assessment indicates that ongoing monitoring and maintenance may be necessary to ensure the safety and longevity of the structure.

Located within the Charleston District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, Phillips Lake Dam contributes to the overall water resource management in the region. While it may not have a significant impact on flood control or water supply, its recreational value and moderate risk level warrant attention from both local authorities and dam safety professionals. As climate enthusiasts, understanding the role of structures like Phillips Lake Dam in balancing water resource management and recreational needs is essential for promoting sustainable practices in the face of changing environmental conditions.

Dam Length

560

Dam Height

8

River Or Stream

FORT CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

11

Nid Storage

69

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

8
       
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.