Wilkes Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Bell's Lake Dam Thomas Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Wilkes Lake Dam, located in Oconee, Georgia, serves as a crucial structure along the Oconee River.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
This private dam, with a height of 20 feet and a storage capacity of 61 acre-feet, plays a significant role in managing water resources in the region. Despite its relatively small size, the dam's moderate hazard potential underscores the importance of regular inspections and risk management measures.
The dam, classified as an Earth dam with a Buttress core type, features an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates. While its condition is currently rated as "Not Rated," the last inspection in September 2013 highlighted the need for ongoing monitoring and maintenance. With no state regulation or permitting in place, the responsibility for ensuring the safety and integrity of Wilkes Lake Dam falls on its private owner.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is essential to recognize the vital role that dams like Wilkes Lake Dam play in balancing water supply, flood control, and environmental conservation. By staying informed about the condition and management of such structures, we can contribute to the sustainable stewardship of our water resources for future generations.
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
Oconee River |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
17 |
Nid Storage |
61 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Undetermined |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
20 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Apalachee River Near Bostwick
|
115cfs |
Middle Oconee River Near Athens
|
229cfs |
Oconee River Near Penfield
|
527cfs |
North Oconee River At College St
|
121cfs |
Middle Oconee River Near Arcade
|
198cfs |
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.
Wilkes Lake Dam