Parsons Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Parsons Lake Dam, located in Wilkes, Georgia, is a privately owned structure with a height of 29 feet and a storage capacity of 38 acre-feet.
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Summary
It is classified as an Earth dam with a Buttress core type and an Uncontrolled spillway. While the dam has a low hazard potential, it is rated as having a moderate risk with a risk assessment score of 3 out of 5.
The dam has not been inspected since September 2011, with an inspection frequency of 5 years. Despite its condition being listed as "Not Rated," the dam is still considered to meet safety guidelines. Parsons Lake Dam is situated within the Savannah District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, although it is not owned or funded by any federal agencies.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in Parsons Lake Dam will find its unique design and risk assessment intriguing. With its location in Georgia and its private ownership, the dam presents an opportunity for further study and monitoring to ensure its continued safety and functionality in managing water resources in the area.
Dam Height |
29 |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Nid Storage |
38 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
29 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Kettle Creek Near Washington
|
6cfs |
Broad River Near Bell
|
697cfs |
South Fork Broad River At Carlton
|
87cfs |
Little River Near Washington
|
49cfs |
Broad River Above Carlton
|
338cfs |
Oconee River Near Penfield
|
527cfs |
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.
Parsons Lake Dam