Nelms Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Nelms Lake Dam, located in Wayne County, Georgia, is a private-owned earth dam with a height of 14 feet and a length of 645 feet.
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Summary
The dam has a storage capacity of 136 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 65 acre-feet. Despite being uncontrolled, the spillway type at Nelms Lake Dam is designed to manage any overflow effectively.
Although the dam is classified as low hazard potential, it is subject to regular inspections, with the last one conducted in April 2016. The risk assessment for Nelms Lake Dam is moderate, indicating a need for ongoing monitoring and management measures. Even though the dam is not regulated by the state, it is essential for water resource and climate enthusiasts to recognize the potential risks associated with this structure and advocate for appropriate safety protocols.
As a significant feature in the water infrastructure of Wayne County, Nelms Lake Dam serves as a critical component in managing water resources in the region. With its strategic location and moderate risk level, it is essential for stakeholders and authorities to stay vigilant in ensuring the safety and integrity of the dam to prevent any potential hazards to the surrounding community and environment. For enthusiasts interested in water resource management and climate resilience, understanding the intricacies of dams like Nelms Lake Dam is crucial for promoting sustainable practices in water governance and infrastructure development.
Dam Length |
645 |
Dam Height |
14 |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
13 |
Nid Storage |
136 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
14 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Altamaha River At Doctortown
|
3110cfs |
Little Satilla River Near Offerman
|
2cfs |
Altamaha River Near Baxley
|
3480cfs |
Peacock Creek At Mcintosh
|
4cfs |
Ohoopee River Near Reidsville
|
105cfs |
Canoochee River Near Claxton
|
16cfs |
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.
Nelms Lake Dam