Walter F. George Lock And Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Walter F.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

George Lock and Dam, located in Fort Gaines, Alabama, along the Chattahoochee River, serves multiple purposes, including flood risk reduction, hydroelectric power generation, navigation, and recreation. Completed in 1962 by the US Army Corps of Engineers, this concrete dam stands at a height of 106 feet and has a structural height of 171 feet. With a storage capacity of 934,400 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 631,500 cubic feet per second, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water levels and mitigating flood risks in the region.

The dam features a controlled spillway with a width of 588 feet and a single lock measuring 450 feet in length and 82 feet in width, facilitating navigation along the river. With a high hazard potential, the dam is subject to regular inspections and risk assessments to ensure its safety and functionality. The US Army Corps of Engineers actively manages dam-related flood risks by monitoring the dam's condition, prioritizing risk-reduction activities, and engaging with local emergency managers and the community to raise awareness and preparedness for potential emergencies.

In the face of severe weather events and changing water conditions, the US Army Corps of Engineers remains vigilant in its risk management measures to safeguard the dam and surrounding areas. By maintaining a robust emergency action plan, conducting regular maintenance and repairs, and collaborating with local stakeholders, the Walter F. George Lock and Dam continues to play a vital role in water resource management and climate resilience in Alabama.

Year Completed

1962

Dam Length

13585

Dam Height

106

River Or Stream

CHATTAHOOCHEE RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

45181

Length Of Locks

450

Hydraulic Height

101

Drainage Area

7460

Nid Storage

934400

Structural Height

171

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock and Soil

Nid Height

171
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.

Hazard Potential Classification

High
Dams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.