Patterson Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Patterson Lake Dam, located in Toccoa, Georgia, was completed in 1992 for the primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

Owned privately, this earth dam stands at 44 feet high and spans 900 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 98 acre-feet. The dam is classified as low hazard potential with a moderate risk assessment, indicating the importance of regular inspections and maintenance to ensure its safety and functionality.

Designed by McGill and Associates, Patterson Lake Dam features an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates. Despite not being regulated by the state, the dam undergoes regular inspections, with the last assessment conducted in March 2017. With its scenic surroundings and recreational offerings, including a surface area of 3 acres, Patterson Lake Dam serves as a popular destination for water resource and climate enthusiasts seeking to enjoy the outdoors while appreciating the engineering marvel that is this earth dam.

Year Completed

1992

Dam Length

900

Dam Height

44

River Or Stream

UNKNOWN

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

3

Hydraulic Height

44

Nid Storage

98

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

44
       
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.