Drying Out: George H Sparks Reservoir, Part 1

Published October 21st, 2007
The dry lake bed breaks out into fractures

The presence of the historical drought has hit the state of Georgia with a devastating blow. Lakes and reservoirs are becoming barren lands, crackled skins yearning for the smallest hint of rain. Douglas County has its share of reservoirs, most notably the Dog River Reservoir, but another has yet to see much press.

Tucked away in the Sweetwater Creek State Conservation Park is the George H. Sparks Reservoir. A familiar sight to those that drive down Mt. Vernon Road that serves as a dam. The Sparks Reservoir serves the residents East Point, a city near the Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport.

Originally known as the Beaver Dam Reservoir, Douglas County sold an extensive amount of land belonging to the McCrary family in 1960 to the City of East Point in order for them to build a reservoir. Later the reservoir would be renamed after George H. Sparks, the Public Utilities Director of East Point.

On average water would cover over 215 acres in the state park. Today it is possible to hike the whole perimeter of the lake with ease, a feat not possible on a normal basis. Floating docks sit restlessly and boats are off limits. The reservoir serves as the major water source for the city of East Point.

These photographs were taken two days before the rains came on Friday.

Water slowly flows from a culvert, etching out a winding stream
A pathway becomes present beneath an October sun, allowing visitors to venture out into the center of the reservoir
Old tires appear clusterd together throughout, signs of fish hatcherie
Geese and mallards alike rest on islands of silt, a common feature that has become a result of the drought
Parts of the reservoir take on the presence of a swamp
Boats are off limits as the yellow caution tap flutters in the wind
Floating docks rest alone at a distant water source
Some people look upon the presence of a lowering reservoir

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One Response to “Drying Out: George H Sparks Reservoir, Part 1”

  1. No Soup for You « Obi’s Sister

    [...] First look here to see what the waters of the park normally look like. Then look at Losing Georgia here ,here and [...]

    October 26th, 2007 at 1:21 pm