Bailey Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Bailey Lake Dam, located in Tallapoosa, Georgia, was completed in 1990 and serves as a key recreational resource for the local community.


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Summary

The dam, designed by Travis Pruitt and Associates, is primarily an earth dam with a height of 44 feet and a hydraulic height of 35.4 feet. The dam's main purpose is for recreation, offering a serene setting for activities such as fishing, boating, and picnicking on its 7.8-acre surface area.

With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment, Bailey Lake Dam has a solid structural integrity and is inspected regularly for safety. The dam's uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates help manage water levels, while its maximum storage capacity of 249 acre-feet provides a reliable water resource for the area. Although not state-regulated, the dam is subject to inspections every five years to ensure its continued safety and functionality for both recreational and environmental purposes.

Overall, Bailey Lake Dam stands as a testament to responsible dam management and the importance of water resource conservation in the face of climate change. Its role in providing recreational opportunities, maintaining water levels, and ensuring safety highlights the significance of sustainable infrastructure for both human enjoyment and environmental protection in the region.

Year Completed

1990

Dam Length

240

Dam Height

44

River Or Stream

Unknown

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

7.8

Hydraulic Height

35.4

Nid Storage

249

Structural Height

35.4

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

44
       
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.