Sowell Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Orchard Hill, Georgia, Sowell Lake Dam is a private-owned structure primarily used for recreation.


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Summary

The dam, classified as an Earth type with a buttress core, stands at a height of 30 feet and has a hydraulic height of 27.4 feet. With a length of 765 feet, it offers a storage capacity of 200 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 137 acre-feet. The dam's low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment make it a relatively safe and stable structure.

Although the dam is not state-regulated or permitted, it undergoes regular inspections, with the last one conducted in October 2012. The inspection frequency is set at 5 years, and the condition of the dam is currently not rated. While the dam's emergency action plan and risk management measures are not specified, its risk assessment indicates a moderate level of risk. Sowell Lake Dam serves as an important recreational asset in the area, offering a picturesque setting for water resource and climate enthusiasts to enjoy.

Dam Length

765

Dam Height

30

River Or Stream

UNKNOWN

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

12

Hydraulic Height

27.4

Drainage Area

257

Nid Storage

200

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

30
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.