Lake Swan Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lake Swan Dam, located in Hiram, Georgia, serves as a vital recreational spot along Davis Mill Creek.


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Summary

Constructed in 1989, the earth dam stands at a height of 25.5 feet and has a maximum storage capacity of 962 acre-feet. The dam spans 300 feet in length, creating a surface area of 49 acres for visitors to enjoy water-based activities.

Despite its primary purpose for recreation, Lake Swan Dam poses a high hazard potential due to its poor condition assessment, with a moderate risk level of 3. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, and is regulated by the Georgia Safe Dams Program. With a history of state inspection, enforcement, and permitting, the dam remains under private ownership but remains a significant focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts in the region.

Enthusiasts and visitors alike are drawn to Lake Swan Dam for its picturesque setting and recreational opportunities, but its high hazard potential and poor condition assessment highlight the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure public safety and environmental protection. As climate change continues to pose challenges for water resources, the dam serves as a reminder of the critical role that infrastructure plays in managing and conserving our natural resources for future generations.

Year Completed

1989

Dam Length

300

Dam Height

25.5

River Or Stream

Davis Mill Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

49

Hydraulic Height

23

Drainage Area

3

Nid Storage

962

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

26
       
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.