Shepherd Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Knights Pond Dam Halls Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Shepherd Lake Dam, located in Wilkinson, Georgia, is a private earth dam standing at 29 feet high and stretching 825 feet in length.
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Summary
It holds a maximum storage capacity of 1188 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 627 acre-feet and a surface area of 60 acres. The dam is situated on Cedar Creek and is under the jurisdiction of the state, with inspections conducted regularly to ensure its structural integrity.
Although Shepherd Lake Dam is classified as having a low hazard potential, it is considered to have a moderate risk level. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, with no associated locks or drainage area listed. The last inspection of the dam was conducted in January 2018, with a frequency of every 5 years. The dam is not regulated by the state but is subject to state jurisdiction and enforcement.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Shepherd Lake Dam provides an intriguing example of a privately-owned structure in Georgia. With its unique design and moderate risk assessment, this dam serves as a focal point for understanding the importance of proper maintenance and inspection protocols in ensuring the safety and longevity of water infrastructure. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the management of dams like Shepherd Lake becomes increasingly vital in safeguarding communities and ecosystems.
Dam Length |
825 |
Dam Height |
29 |
River Or Stream |
CEDAR CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
60 |
Nid Storage |
1188 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
29 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Oconee River Near Oconee
|
864cfs |
Oconee River At Avant Mine
|
606cfs |
Buffalo Creek At Ga 272
|
49cfs |
Oconee River At Dublin
|
1030cfs |
Ocmulgee River At Macon
|
1580cfs |
Oconee River At Milledgeville
|
514cfs |
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.
Shepherd Lake Dam