High Head Branch Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

High Head Branch Lake Dam, located in Burke, Georgia, is a state-owned structure with a dam height of 45 feet and a storage capacity of 2250 acre-feet.


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Summary

The dam, classified as a buttress type with an uncontrolled spillway, holds back the waters of High Head Branch, serving as a vital resource for water supply and flood control in the region. Despite being unregulated by the state, the dam undergoes regular inspections, with the last one conducted in July 2014.

While the hazard potential and condition assessment of High Head Branch Lake Dam are currently undetermined and not rated, respectively, the overall risk is considered moderate. With an inspection frequency of every 5 years and no Emergency Action Plan (EAP) in place, the dam's risk management measures and preparedness for potential emergencies may need further attention. The dam's location within the Charleston District and its association with Representative Rick W. Allen highlight its importance in maintaining water resources and mitigating climate-related risks in the area.

Dam Height

45

River Or Stream

HIGH HEAD BRANCH

Nid Storage

2250

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Undetermined

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

45
       
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.