Hickory Cove Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Hickory Cove Lake Dam, located in Pickens, Georgia, is a privately owned earth dam primarily used for recreation.


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Summary

Built in 1971, this dam stands at a height of 27 feet and spans 162 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 20 acre-feet. The dam's purpose is to provide a scenic lake for recreational activities, offering a surface area of 1 acre for visitors to enjoy.

Despite being unregulated by the state, Hickory Cove Lake Dam is inspected every five years to ensure its structural integrity and low hazard potential. The dam has an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, and while its condition is currently unrated, the risk assessment indicates a moderate risk level. Although no emergency action plan has been prepared or updated, the dam meets safety guidelines and is considered to have moderate risk management measures in place.

Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will find Hickory Cove Lake Dam to be a picturesque destination for recreational activities, with its peaceful surroundings and moderate risk level adding to its allure. With its historical significance dating back to the early 1970s, this privately owned dam serves as a vital part of the local community and provides a valuable source of enjoyment for visitors seeking a tranquil escape in nature.

Year Completed

1971

Dam Length

162

Dam Height

27

River Or Stream

UNKNOWN

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

1

Drainage Area

170

Nid Storage

20

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

27
       
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.