Richard B. Russell State Park Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Richard B.


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Summary

Russell State Park Lake Dam in Georgia, completed in 2001, stands as a testament to modern engineering and water resource management. This state-owned dam, designed by ED ADAMS AND ASSOCIATES, serves as a vital component of the local ecosystem, providing storage for 39 acre-feet of water while maintaining a low hazard potential. With a primary purpose of regulating water levels in the area, the dam boasts an Earth core type with a buttress foundation, ensuring its structural integrity for years to come.

Situated in Elbert County, Georgia, the Richard B. Russell State Park Lake Dam is equipped with uncontrolled spillways and outlets, allowing for controlled water release in case of emergencies. Despite its moderate risk assessment rating, the dam has not been formally assessed for its condition, indicating a need for ongoing monitoring and maintenance. With its scenic location and importance in water resource management, the dam remains a key feature of the Savannah District and a focal point for climate enthusiasts interested in the intersection of infrastructure and environmental stewardship.

As climate change continues to impact water resources globally, the Richard B. Russell State Park Lake Dam serves as a critical piece of infrastructure in Georgia's water management strategy. With its impressive storage capacity and low hazard potential, the dam plays a crucial role in regulating water levels and mitigating flood risks in the region. As efforts to address climate challenges intensify, this dam stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water resource management and the role of modern engineering in safeguarding our environment for future generations.

Year Completed

2001

Dam Height

51

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

2

Nid Storage

39

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

51
       
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.