Lake Carlton Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lake Carlton Dam in Gwinnett, Georgia, is a privately owned earth dam primarily designed for recreational purposes.


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Summary

The dam, with a height of 19 feet and a length of 1045 feet, provides storage of 1088 acre-feet of water in Lake Carlton. Managed by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, the dam has a low hazard potential and is currently rated as being in moderate risk.

While the dam's condition is not currently rated, it is notable for its buttress core type and uncontrolled spillway. The dam does not fall under state regulation, inspection, or enforcement. Despite its unregulated status, Lake Carlton Dam plays a vital role in providing recreational opportunities for water enthusiasts in the area, showcasing the importance of water resources in maintaining a healthy and sustainable environment.

Located within the Mobile District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, Lake Carlton Dam stands as a testament to the collaborative efforts between private owners and federal agencies in managing water resources for recreational purposes. As climate change continues to impact water availability and quality, the preservation and maintenance of such dams become increasingly crucial in ensuring the resilience of our water infrastructure for future generations of water and climate enthusiasts.

Dam Length

1045

Dam Height

19

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Nid Storage

1088

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

19
       
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.