Howell South Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Howell South Lake Dam, located in Gilmer, Georgia, is a privately owned earth dam primarily used for recreational purposes.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Standing at 36 feet high and stretching 180 feet in length, this dam has a maximum storage capacity of 84 acre-feet and a normal storage of 64 acre-feet. The dam's spillway type is uncontrolled, with an uncontrolled outlet gates system in place.

Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, the dam's risk assessment indicates a moderate risk level, with a DSAC (Dam Safety Action Classification) of 3. The condition assessment of the dam is currently labeled as "Not Rated," with no recent inspection data available. While the dam does not fall under federal jurisdiction, its risk management measures and emergency preparedness plans are unspecified. Water resource and climate enthusiasts may find Howell South Lake Dam an intriguing site for further study and monitoring, given its unique design and potential risks associated with its operation.

Dam Length

180

Dam Height

36

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

5

Nid Storage

84

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

36
       
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.