Melody Lake Dam

WRIGHTS CREEK· Newton, Georgia· Built 1950· Earth· 30 ft tall

Key Takeaway

Melody Lake Dam is classified as high hazard in Georgia. It was completed in 1950 and is 76 years old. Its primary use is fire protection. 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 30 ft (taller than 76% in GA)
Dam Length1,840 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage506 acre-ft
Normal Storage262 acre-ft
Surface Area30 acres
Drainage Area280 sq mi
Year Completed1950 (76 years old)
NID IDGA05153

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: March 1, 2017
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: GA-SAFE DAMS PROGRAM

Ownership

Melody Lake Association, Inc.

Private

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Melody Lake Dam?

Melody 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 Melody Lake Dam?

Melody Lake Dam is owned by Melody Lake Association, Inc. (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Melody Lake Dam built?

Melody Lake Dam was completed in 1950, making it 76 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 Melody Lake Dam?

Melody Lake Dam serves the following purposes: Fire Protection, Stock, Or Small Fish Pond. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

How tall is Melody Lake Dam?

Melody Lake Dam has a dam height of 30 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 Melody Lake Dam last inspected?

Melody Lake Dam was last inspected on March 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.