Mcrae Big Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Mcrae Big Lake Dam in Telfair, Georgia, stands tall as a crucial water resource for the area.
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Summary
Completed in 1979, the dam serves primarily for recreational purposes, offering a serene retreat for water and climate enthusiasts alike. With an earth dam type and a height of 20 feet, the structure boasts a storage capacity of 255 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 27 acres. The dam's low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment make it a safe and reliable asset for the community.
Managed by a private entity, Mcrae Big Lake Dam has withstood the test of time, with its last inspection in 2017 revealing a good overall condition. The dam's uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates contribute to its simple yet effective design, ensuring proper water flow management. With its location in the Savannah District and proximity to the unknown river or stream, the dam remains a vital component of the local water infrastructure, showcasing the importance of responsible water resource management in sustaining the environment and meeting the needs of the community.
As climate change continues to pose challenges to water resources, the Mcrae Big Lake Dam serves as a resilient structure that plays a key role in water conservation efforts. While not federally regulated, the dam's state jurisdiction highlights the importance of local oversight in ensuring its continued operation and safety. With its recreational value and practical function, Mcrae Big Lake Dam stands as a testament to the intersection of human ingenuity and environmental stewardship in managing water resources for future generations.
Year Completed |
1979 |
Dam Length |
1230 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
UNKNOWN |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
27 |
Hydraulic Height |
17 |
Drainage Area |
362 |
Nid Storage |
255 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
20 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Turnpike Creek Near Mcrae
|
11cfs |
Ocmulgee River At Lumber City
|
2740cfs |
Oconee River Near Mount Vernon
|
1280cfs |
Altamaha River Near Baxley
|
4410cfs |
Oconee River At Dublin
|
1030cfs |
Ocmulgee River At Hawkinsville
|
1900cfs |
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.
Mcrae Big Lake Dam