Boutwell Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Boutwell Lake Dam, located in Columbia, Georgia, is a private earth dam primarily used for recreational purposes.


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Summary

Standing at a height of 31 feet and stretching 392 feet in length, this dam offers a serene setting for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy water-based activities in a picturesque environment. The dam's low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment make it a safe and reliable location for visitors to explore and appreciate the beauty of nature.

Managed by the Charleston District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, Boutwell Lake Dam has not undergone recent modifications or inspections, with its last assessment dated back to September 2017. Despite its lack of a formal condition assessment, the dam's structural integrity and safety measures are reported to be in good standing, ensuring the protection of the surrounding community and environment. With uncontrolled spillways and outlets, the dam provides a natural flow of water, enhancing the ecosystem and creating a sustainable habitat for local wildlife.

While Boutwell Lake Dam may not be regulated by the state, its importance lies in its contribution to the local landscape and its value as a recreational resource for residents and visitors alike. As a private-owned structure with a focus on leisure activities, this dam serves as a testament to the harmonious relationship between water resources and climate enthusiasts seeking to connect with nature in a meaningful way.

Dam Length

392

Dam Height

31

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

2

Nid Storage

57

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

31
       
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.