Lunker Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Lunker Lake Dam, located in McWhorter, Georgia, is a privately owned structure primarily used for recreational purposes.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

The dam, designed by Dan McGill, P.E., is an earth dam with a buttress core type and stands at a height of 39 feet. It has a maximum storage capacity of 192.8 acre-feet and a normal storage capacity of 127.4 acre-feet, covering a surface area of 9.8 acres. The dam's spillway type is uncontrolled, with uncontrolled outlet gates, and it has a low hazard potential with a moderate risk assessment rating.

Despite being a privately owned dam, Lunker Lake Dam is not regulated by the state of Georgia and does not require state permitting. The dam has not been inspected since May 2018, with an inspection frequency of 5 years. Its condition assessment is currently listed as "Not Rated," and no emergency action plan (EAP) has been prepared or updated. The risk management measures for the dam are unspecified, but its overall risk assessment is moderate, with a DSAC (Dam Safety Action Classification) not yet assigned.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in Lunker Lake Dam can appreciate its recreational value and its role in providing storage capacity for the surrounding area. The dam's unique design features and lack of state regulation present an interesting case study in dam management and safety. With a focus on risk assessment and emergency preparedness, there is potential for further research and analysis to ensure the continued safety and functionality of Lunker Lake Dam.

Dam Length

350

Dam Height

39

River Or Stream

Name unknown

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

9.8

Hydraulic Height

32

Nid Storage

192.8

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

39
       
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.