Whippoorwill Lake Dam: Strategic Improvements and Reclassification

PeoplesQuigley | DCCM has partnered with Callaway Resort & Gardens since 1999 on projects across the 2,500-acre property, which includes 14 regulated dams. Whippoorwill Lake Dam, a 500-ft long, 34-ft high structure with a storage capacity of 117 acre-feet, underwent inspection in 2018 to identify maintenance needs and improvements. Upon review of Category I qualifications, it was determined that only one downstream structure would be impacted in the event of failure. Our team performed HEC-RAS modeling and prepared a Preliminary Project Summary to demonstrate how a proposed berm downstream would mitigate risk. Construction documents were developed showing the berm and other maintenance improvements, and PeoplesQuigley | DCCM provided permitting support, engineering oversight, and construction management throughout the project. Upon completion, the dam was successfully reclassified as a Category II structure in December 2024, enhancing safety, regulatory flexibility, and long-term functionality.

Services Provided

• Dam inspection & condition assessment
• HEC-RAS modeling & preliminary project analysis
• Maintenance planning & improvement recommendations
• Construction documents & permitting support
• Engineering oversight & construction management
• Dam reclassification coordination with GA DNR EPD – Safe Dams Program
• Infrastructure rehabilitation & berm design