Montgomery Shores Upper Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Montgomery Shores Upper Lake Dam, located in Commerce, Georgia, stands as a testament to the importance of water resource management and climate considerations in recreational infrastructure.
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Summary
Built in 1989 by designer GUTHRIE, this private dam serves primarily for recreational purposes, offering a serene escape for visitors to enjoy the surrounding beauty of Jackson County. With a height of 30 feet and a length of 300 feet, the dam creates a reservoir with a storage capacity of 91 acre-feet, providing ample opportunities for outdoor activities on its 4-acre surface area.
Despite its low hazard potential, Montgomery Shores Upper Lake Dam undergoes regular inspections, with the latest one conducted in June 2016. The dam's condition assessment remains unrated, reflecting the need for ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure its structural integrity and safety. While the dam currently operates with uncontrolled spillways and outlet gates, its risk assessment categorizes it as moderate, highlighting the importance of implementing risk management measures to mitigate potential threats and safeguard the surrounding community and environment.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Montgomery Shores Upper Lake Dam serves as a fascinating case study in the intersection of human engineering and natural landscapes. As a vital component of the local ecosystem, this earth dam not only provides recreational opportunities but also underscores the crucial role of sustainable water management practices in preserving the beauty and functionality of our natural surroundings. With a commitment to regular inspections and risk assessment, this dam exemplifies the ongoing efforts to balance human needs with environmental stewardship in the face of changing climate dynamics.
Year Completed |
1989 |
Dam Length |
300 |
Dam Height |
30 |
River Or Stream |
UNKNOWN |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
4 |
Nid Storage |
91 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
30 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Montgomery Shores Upper Lake Dam