Bartletts Ferry Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Bartletts Ferry, Main Dam, also known as Lake Harding, is a captivating hydroelectric structure located in Columbus, Georgia on the Chattahoochee River.


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Summary

Built in 1926 and standing at a height of 150 feet, this gravity dam serves multiple purposes including hydroelectric power generation and recreation. With a normal storage capacity of 183,000 acre-feet and a surface area of 5,850 acres, the dam plays a crucial role in water resource management and flood control in the region.

Managed by a public utility, Bartletts Ferry Dam is under the jurisdiction of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) and has a high hazard potential due to its structural characteristics. The dam features a controlled spillway with a width of 1,785 feet and 19 Tainter gates for water release. As a popular destination for water and climate enthusiasts, the dam offers opportunities for boating, fishing, and other recreational activities in addition to its essential role in generating clean energy.

Despite its age, Bartletts Ferry Dam continues to undergo regular inspections and maintenance to ensure its safety and functionality. With a risk assessment rating of very high, the dam is closely monitored for any potential hazards or issues. As a vital piece of infrastructure in the area, Bartletts Ferry Dam remains a symbol of sustainable water resource management and climate resilience in Georgia.

Year Completed

1926

Dam Length

3786

Dam Height

150

River Or Stream

Chattahoochee

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

5850

Hydraulic Height

116

Drainage Area

4260

Nid Storage

183000

Structural Height

150

Outlet Gates

Tainter (radial) - 19

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

150
       
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.