Cotcher Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Cotcher Lake Dam, located in Wilkes, Georgia, is a privately owned Earth dam with a height of 26 feet and a length of 132 feet.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
The dam has a storage capacity of 90 acre-feet, with normal storage levels reaching 65 acre-feet. The dam's primary purpose and exact year of completion are unspecified, but it serves as a water resource for the surrounding area.
Despite being unregulated by the state, Cotcher Lake Dam is inspected every five years, with the last inspection occurring in September 2016. The dam has a low hazard potential, with a moderate risk assessment rating of 3. Emergency action plans and inundation maps for the dam are not currently prepared or updated, but the risk management measures in place are adequate to address potential risks and ensure public safety.
Overall, Cotcher Lake Dam serves as a crucial water management structure in the region, providing storage for 90 acre-feet of water. While the dam has a moderate risk assessment, its low hazard potential and regular inspections help mitigate potential dangers. Continued monitoring and maintenance of the dam are essential to ensure its long-term functionality and safety for the community.
Dam Length |
132 |
Dam Height |
26 |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
6 |
Nid Storage |
90 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
26 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Little River Near Washington
|
49cfs |
Kettle Creek Near Washington
|
6cfs |
Broad River Near Bell
|
697cfs |
Stevens Creek Near Modoc
|
70cfs |
Little River Near Mt. Carmel
|
66cfs |
South Fork Broad River At Carlton
|
87cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Cotcher Lake Dam