Nicholson Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Nicholson Lake Dam is classified as high hazard in Georgia. It was completed in 1943 and is 83 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 | 525 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 84 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 70 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 7 acres |
| Drainage Area | 130 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1943 (83 years old) |
| Year Modified | 2003 |
| NID ID | GA01778 |
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
Vietnamese Elder Association South Atlanta
Private
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What is the hazard classification of Nicholson Lake Dam?
Nicholson 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 Nicholson Lake Dam?
Nicholson Lake Dam is owned by Vietnamese Elder Association South Atlanta (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Nicholson Lake Dam built?
Nicholson Lake Dam was completed in 1943, making it 83 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 Nicholson Lake Dam?
Nicholson 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 Nicholson Lake Dam?
Nicholson Lake 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 Nicholson Lake Dam last inspected?
Nicholson Lake Dam was last inspected on January 12, 2016. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.