Brightwater Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Brightwater Lake Dam is classified as high hazard in Georgia. It was completed in 1957 and is 69 years old. Its primary use is recreation. High hazard means loss of life is likely if the dam fails — it does not indicate the dam's current condition. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 27 ft (taller than 65.9% in GA) |
| Dam Length | 384 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 113 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 73 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 7 acres |
| Drainage Area | 230 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1957 (69 years old) |
| NID ID | GA02457 |
Safety Information
Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
Brightwater Homeowner's Association, Inc. Burnside, Jack
Private
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Low Hazard 24 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Brightwater Lake Dam?
Brightwater Lake Dam is classified as High Hazard. Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Brightwater Lake Dam?
Brightwater Lake Dam is owned by Brightwater Homeowner's Association, Inc. Burnside, Jack (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Brightwater Lake Dam built?
Brightwater Lake Dam was completed in 1957, making it 69 years old. Many U.S. dams were built between the 1930s and 1970s during a period of major infrastructure investment.
What is the primary purpose of Brightwater Lake Dam?
Brightwater Lake Dam serves the following purposes: Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Brightwater Lake Dam?
Brightwater Lake Dam has a dam height of 27 ft. Dam height is measured from the natural streambed at the downstream toe to the top of the dam, and may differ from the visible height.
When was Brightwater Lake Dam last inspected?
Brightwater Lake Dam was last inspected on March 20, 2019. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.