Cawthon Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Cawthon Lake Dam, located in Butts, Georgia, is a privately owned earth dam constructed in 1953 by the Natural Resources Conservation Service.


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Summary

Standing at a height of 17 feet and a length of 375 feet, the dam serves multiple purposes including water storage and flood control for the surrounding area. With a normal storage capacity of 71 acre-feet and a drainage area of 1069 square miles, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region.

Despite being unregulated by the state and having a low hazard potential, Cawthon Lake Dam is subject to periodic inspections to ensure its structural integrity and overall safety. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, allowing for controlled release of excess water during times of heavy rainfall. With a moderate risk assessment rating, the dam's risk management measures are continuously monitored and updated as needed to mitigate any potential threats to the surrounding community.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Cawthon Lake Dam presents an intriguing case study in the management of water infrastructure in Georgia. Its location, design, and operational characteristics make it a fascinating subject for those interested in the intersection of engineering, conservation, and environmental stewardship. As the dam continues to play a vital role in water management in the region, its maintenance and monitoring will be crucial in ensuring the safety and sustainability of its operations for years to come.

Year Completed

1953

Dam Length

375

Dam Height

17

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

11

Drainage Area

1069

Nid Storage

110

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

17
       
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.