Little River Ws Str #21 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Little River WS Str #21 is a state-regulated earth dam located in Cherokee County, Georgia, specifically in the city of Birmingham.


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Summary

Managed by the Georgia-SAFE DAMS PROGRAM, this dam serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction along the Little River. With a height of 35.5 feet and a storage capacity of 1329 acre-feet, this structure plays a critical role in protecting the surrounding area from potential flooding events.

Despite its important function, Little River WS Str #21 is categorized as having a high hazard potential and poor condition assessment. The last inspection in May 2019 revealed the need for improvements to ensure the dam's continued effectiveness in flood risk reduction. The risk assessment for this structure is moderate, highlighting the need for ongoing monitoring and potential risk management measures to mitigate any potential hazards associated with its current condition.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is crucial to stay informed about the status of dams like Little River WS Str #21, as they play a vital role in managing water resources and protecting communities from flooding. Continued attention to the maintenance and safety of such structures is essential to ensure their resilience in the face of changing weather patterns and increasing risks associated with climate change.

Dam Length

990

Dam Height

35.5

River Or Stream

LITTLE RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

32.2

Hydraulic Height

32.5

Drainage Area

3265

Nid Storage

1329

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

36
       
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.