Birch Creek Farms Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Birch Creek Farms Lake Dam in Pike, Georgia, stands as a testament to private ownership and stewardship in managing water resources.
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Summary
Built in 1981, this earth dam spans 480 feet and reaches a height of 24 feet, holding a maximum storage capacity of 277 acre-feet. Situated on Birch Creek, the dam serves primarily as a means of irrigation for the surrounding farmland, with a normal storage capacity of 171 acre-feet. Despite its uncontrolled spillway and low hazard potential, the dam's risk assessment is moderate, prompting regular inspections every five years to ensure its structural integrity.
While not regulated by the state, the dam's condition remains unrated, emphasizing the need for ongoing maintenance and risk management measures. Although the dam has not undergone recent modifications, its emergency action plan status and adherence to guidelines remain unclear. With a risk assessment of moderate, the dam presents a manageable level of risk, yet highlights the importance of proactively monitoring and maintaining such vital infrastructure to safeguard against potential hazards and ensure the continued sustainability of water resources in the region. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Birch Creek Farms Lake Dam serves as a case study in private dam ownership and the importance of balancing agricultural needs with responsible water management practices.
Year Completed |
1981 |
Dam Length |
480 |
Dam Height |
24 |
River Or Stream |
Birch Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
12.5 |
Nid Storage |
277 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
24 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Birch Creek Farms Lake Dam