Bell Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Bell Lake Dam, located in Villa Rica, Georgia, is a private recreational dam designed by the Soil Conservation Service (SCS).


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Summary

Standing at a height of 27.4 feet with a hydraulic height of 25.5 feet, this earth dam boasts a storage capacity of 90.5 acre-feet, making it a popular destination for water resource and climate enthusiasts. The dam is primarily used for recreation, offering a serene environment for activities such as fishing, boating, and wildlife observation.

Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, Bell Lake Dam undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity and safety. The last inspection in November 2017 found the dam to be in satisfactory condition, although its overall assessment is listed as "Not Rated." With a moderate risk assessment rating, measures for risk management and emergency preparedness are crucial to safeguard the surrounding area and maintain the dam's functionality for future generations of water resource and climate enthusiasts.

While Bell Lake Dam may not be regulated by the state, its stewardship falls under private ownership. The dam's uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates add to its charm and rustic appeal, attracting visitors to enjoy the recreational opportunities it provides. With its picturesque location in Carroll County, Georgia, Bell Lake Dam serves as a tranquil retreat where water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate the beauty of nature while engaging in outdoor activities.

Dam Length

164

Dam Height

27.4

River Or Stream

Name unknown

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

6

Hydraulic Height

25.5

Nid Storage

90.5

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

27
       
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.