Sugarloaf Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Sugarloaf Lake Dam in Gwinnett, Georgia is a privately owned structure primarily used for recreation purposes.


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Summary

This earth dam, with a height of 34 feet, was designed by the Natural Resources Conservation Service. The dam has a storage capacity of 719 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 332 acre-feet, making it a significant asset for water resource management in the area.

Despite its satisfactory condition assessment, Sugarloaf Lake Dam is classified as having a high hazard potential, indicating the need for regular inspections and maintenance. The dam has an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, posing risks in case of extreme weather events. While the risk assessment is moderate, it is essential for the dam owner and regulatory agencies to have emergency action plans in place to mitigate potential dangers and ensure public safety.

Located within the jurisdiction of the Georgia Safe Dams Program, Sugarloaf Lake Dam is subject to state regulations and enforcement. With its picturesque setting and importance for recreation, this dam serves as a vital water resource for the local community. Continued monitoring and proactive risk management measures will be crucial in preserving the integrity and functionality of Sugarloaf Lake Dam for years to come.

Dam Height

34

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Nid Storage

719

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

34
       
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.