Lake Yanu Dam
Key Takeaway
Lake Yanu Dam is classified as high hazard in Georgia. It was completed in 1972 and is 54 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 | 35 ft (taller than 86.5% in GA) |
| Dam Length | 267 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 18 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 16 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 1 acres |
| Drainage Area | 50 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1972 (54 years old) |
| NID ID | GA00614 |
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
Walnut Mountain Property Owners Association
Private
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Low Hazard 37 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Lake Yanu Dam?
Lake Yanu 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 Yanu Dam?
Lake Yanu Dam is owned by Walnut Mountain Property Owners Association (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Lake Yanu Dam built?
Lake Yanu Dam was completed in 1972, making it 54 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 Yanu Dam?
Lake Yanu 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 Yanu Dam?
Lake Yanu Dam has a dam height of 35 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 Yanu Dam last inspected?
Lake Yanu Dam was last inspected on March 2, 2016. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.