Rakestraw Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Rakestraw Lake Dam, located in Dallas, Georgia, was completed in 1968 and serves as a recreational water resource for the community.


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Summary

With a dam height of 38.6 feet and a normal storage capacity of 60 acre-feet, the earth dam is primarily utilized for recreational purposes and has a low hazard potential. It is owned privately and falls under state jurisdiction, with inspections conducted regularly to ensure its safety and compliance.

Managed by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, the dam features uncontrolled spillways and outlet gates. While the dam has not been rated for its condition assessment, it poses a moderate risk which has led to the assignment of risk assessment measures. Despite not being federally regulated or permitted, the dam is monitored and maintained to meet safety standards, ensuring the protection of the surrounding area and water resources.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts would be interested in the unique design of the Rakestraw Lake Dam, its historical significance as a recreational site, and the ongoing efforts to manage and mitigate potential risks associated with its operation. As a vital part of the local ecosystem, the dam serves as a valuable water source for the community and exemplifies the importance of sustainable water management practices in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1968

Dam Length

195

Dam Height

38.6

River Or Stream

UNKNOWN

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

5

Hydraulic Height

29.4

Drainage Area

65

Nid Storage

87.8

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

39
       
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.