Lee Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lee Lake Dam, located in Columbus, Georgia, was completed in 1991 by the design firm Moon, Meeks, and Patrick.


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Summary

This private dam, standing at 30.6 feet in height, serves as an Earth-type structure with a buttress core, providing a normal storage capacity of 103.5 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 157.7 acre-feet. The dam's purpose and associated structures are not specified, but its low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment suggest a relatively stable and well-managed water resource.

Despite being uninspected since 2008, Lee Lake Dam remains in a not-rated condition, with an emergency action plan and risk management measures yet to be fully documented. The dam's uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates indicate potential vulnerabilities, although the overall risk assessment remains at a moderate level. While the dam's location along an unknown river or stream may pose challenges for regulation and enforcement, its low hazard potential offers some assurance to water resource and climate enthusiasts in the area.

With its unique design features and moderate risk profile, Lee Lake Dam presents an intriguing case study for water resource and climate enthusiasts. Its private ownership, lack of state regulation, and limited inspection history raise questions about its long-term sustainability and emergency preparedness. As enthusiasts continue to monitor and assess the dam's condition, opportunities for research and advocacy in water resource management and climate resilience may emerge, highlighting the importance of proactive stewardship in safeguarding our natural environment.

Year Completed

1991

Dam Length

270

Dam Height

30.6

River Or Stream

Nme Unknown

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

9

Hydraulic Height

28.7

Nid Storage

157.7

Structural Height

28.7

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

31
       
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.