Cowan Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Cowan Lake Dam is classified as high hazard in Georgia. It was completed in 1956 and is 70 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 | 33 ft (taller than 83.4% in GA) |
| Dam Length | 360 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 508 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 318 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 26 acres |
| Drainage Area | 498 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1956 (70 years old) |
| NID ID | GA01284 |
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
Cowan Farms
Private
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Low Hazard 35 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Cowan Lake Dam?
Cowan 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 Cowan Lake Dam?
Cowan Lake Dam is owned by Cowan Farms (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Cowan Lake Dam built?
Cowan Lake Dam was completed in 1956, making it 70 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 Cowan Lake Dam?
Cowan 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 Cowan Lake Dam?
Cowan Lake Dam has a dam height of 33 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 Cowan Lake Dam last inspected?
Cowan Lake Dam was last inspected on January 20, 2016. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.