Barrs Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Barrs Lake Dam in Newton, Georgia is a private earth dam standing at 27 feet high with a storage capacity of 471 acre-feet.


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Summary

Despite being unregulated by the state, the dam is subject to inspections every 5 years to ensure its structural integrity. The dam's spillway is uncontrolled, and it is classified as having a moderate risk level.

Located within the Mobile District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, Barrs Lake Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region. While its primary purpose is unspecified, the dam serves as a vital infrastructure for flood control and water storage. With its hazard potential undetermined and condition not rated, ongoing assessments and risk management measures are essential to safeguard the surrounding community and environment.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will be intrigued by Barrs Lake Dam's unique design features, including its buttress core and uncontrolled spillway. The dam's moderate risk level highlights the importance of regular inspections and emergency preparedness to mitigate potential hazards. As a key player in the local water management system, Barrs Lake Dam exemplifies the intersection of engineering, environmental stewardship, and community safety in ensuring sustainable water resource practices for future generations.

Dam Height

27

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Nid Storage

471

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Undetermined

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

27
       
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.