Lake Franklin Dam

BETHLEHEM CREEK· Harris, Georgia· Built 1935· Earth· 48 ft tall
High Hazard Recreation State Government

Key Takeaway

Lake Franklin Dam is classified as high hazard in Georgia. It was completed in 1935 and is 91 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 48 ft (taller than 95.4% in GA)
Dam Length886 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage677 acre-ft
Normal Storage350 acre-ft
Surface Area37 acres
Drainage Area0 sq mi
Year Completed1935 (91 years old)
NID IDGA01662

Safety Information

High Hazard

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?

Emergency Action Plan: Yes
Last Inspection: February 1, 2017
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: GA-SAFE DAMS PROGRAM

Ownership

Georgia DNR

State Government

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Lake Franklin Dam?

Lake Franklin 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 Lake Franklin Dam?

Lake Franklin Dam is owned by Georgia DNR (State Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Lake Franklin Dam built?

Lake Franklin Dam was completed in 1935, making it 91 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 Lake Franklin Dam?

Lake Franklin 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 Lake Franklin Dam?

Lake Franklin Dam has a dam height of 48 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 Lake Franklin Dam last inspected?

Lake Franklin Dam was last inspected on February 1, 2017. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.

Data from the National Inventory of Dams (NID) maintained by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Dam conditions may have changed since the last update. This site is not affiliated with USACE. Do not use for emergency planning — contact your local dam safety program.