Lake Matthews Dam
Key Takeaway
Lake Matthews Dam is classified as high hazard in Georgia. It was completed in 1955 and is 71 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 | 23 ft (taller than 50.8% in GA) |
| Dam Length | 345 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 272 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 47 acres |
| Drainage Area | 1,250 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1955 (71 years old) |
| NID ID | GA00576 |
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 HOA
Private
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High Hazard 34 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Lake Matthews Dam?
Lake Matthews 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 Matthews Dam?
Lake Matthews Dam is owned by Brightwater HOA (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Lake Matthews Dam built?
Lake Matthews Dam was completed in 1955, making it 71 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 Matthews Dam?
Lake Matthews 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 Matthews Dam?
Lake Matthews Dam has a dam height of 23 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 Matthews Dam last inspected?
Lake Matthews Dam was last inspected on January 27, 2016. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.