166 Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

166 Lake Dam, also known as Entrance Lake Dam, is a private structure located in McWhorter, Georgia.


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Summary

Built in 1994, this Earth dam serves primarily for recreational purposes, offering a storage capacity of 282.7 acre-feet and a surface area of 11.5 acres. Designed by Dan McGill, P.E., the dam stands at a height of 38.1 feet with a hydraulic height of 35 feet, providing low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating.

Despite not being regulated by the state, 166 Lake Dam undergoes regular inspections, with the last one conducted in May 2018. The dam features uncontrolled spillways and outlets, and while it does not have a formal emergency action plan in place, it meets guidelines for risk management. As a private structure, it falls under the jurisdiction of the state and is not associated with any federal agencies for ownership, funding, or construction.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in recreational dams will find 166 Lake Dam a fascinating subject for its unique design, purpose, and risk assessment. Located in Douglas County, Georgia, this dam offers a glimpse into the intersection of human engineering and natural landscapes, serving as a testament to the importance of sustainable water management practices in the face of changing climate dynamics.

Year Completed

1994

Dam Length

420

Dam Height

38.1

River Or Stream

Unnamed

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

11.5

Hydraulic Height

35

Nid Storage

282.7

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

38
       
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.