Morton Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Canton, Georgia, the Morton Lake Dam is a private structure designed by Bill Morton for recreational purposes along Mill Creek.


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Summary

Standing at a height of 24.9 feet with a hydraulic height of 25 feet, this earth dam with a buttress core type offers a storage capacity of 58.9 acre-feet. Despite being uncontrolled, the spillway type and outlet gates of the dam remain operational, ensuring the safety and stability of the surrounding area.

The dam's hazard potential is currently undetermined, with a moderate risk assessment rating of 3. While the condition assessment remains unrated, the last inspection in May 2019 highlighted the need for further evaluation. With emergency action preparedness and risk management measures still pending, the Morton Lake Dam serves as a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts seeking to understand the intricacies of dam construction and maintenance in the face of changing environmental conditions.

As water resource management continues to be a critical issue in Georgia, the Morton Lake Dam stands as a testament to private ownership and recreational use in harmony with nature. With its location in Cherokee County and the stewardship of Bill Morton, this dam serves as a prime example of balancing human enjoyment with responsible infrastructure management in a dynamic climate landscape.

Dam Height

24.9

River Or Stream

Mill Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

4

Hydraulic Height

25

Nid Storage

58.9

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Undetermined

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

25
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No 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

High
Dams 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.