Garden Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Garden Lake Dam, located in Rockdale, Georgia, is a privately owned structure designed by Ben Gross for the primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

Completed in 1986, this earth dam stands at a height of 35 feet with a hydraulic height of 19 feet and a length of 390 feet. The dam has a storage capacity of 77 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 7 acres. Despite being unlisted for its foundations, Garden Lake Dam is inspected regularly, with the last assessment conducted in September 2018, showing a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating.

Situated within the Mobile District, Garden Lake Dam is regulated by the state of Georgia and falls under the jurisdiction of state authorities. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, serving as a haven for recreational activities in the area. While it is not currently permitted for state inspections, the dam's risk management measures are rated as moderate, indicating a level of caution and preparedness in case of emergencies. Overall, Garden Lake Dam provides a picturesque setting for water resource and climate enthusiasts to appreciate the delicate balance between leisure and environmental conservation.

With its tranquil surroundings and modest storage capacity, Garden Lake Dam offers a peaceful retreat for visitors seeking a serene escape in nature. Despite its uncontrolled spillway and lack of state enforcement, the dam's condition remains unrated, hinting at a need for further evaluation and potential improvements. As a point of interest for water resource and climate enthusiasts, Garden Lake Dam serves as a reminder of the importance of responsible dam management and the need to balance recreational activities with environmental preservation.

Year Completed

1986

Dam Length

390

Dam Height

35

River Or Stream

UNKNOWN

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

7

Hydraulic Height

19

Nid Storage

77

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

35
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.