Lower Little Tallapoosa River Watershed Structure No. 53 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Located in Carroll, Georgia, the Lower Little Tallapoosa River Watershed Structure No.


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Summary

53 is a vital flood risk reduction infrastructure managed by the local government. Built in 1968 by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, this earth dam stands at a height of 28 feet and spans 600 feet along Buffalo Creek. With a storage capacity of 581.4 acre-feet, it serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction for the surrounding area.

Despite its critical function, the structure is currently assessed as being in poor condition, with a high hazard potential. The last inspection in November 2017 highlighted the need for maintenance and potential upgrades to ensure its continued effectiveness in mitigating flood risks. As a key component of the watershed's water resource management system, it is essential to address the structural deficiencies and implement risk management measures to safeguard the community and environment it serves.

With a drainage area of 876.8 square miles and a normal storage capacity of 90 acre-feet, the Lower Little Tallapoosa River Watershed Structure No. 53 plays a crucial role in regulating water flow and reducing flood impacts in the region. As climate change continues to influence precipitation patterns and extreme weather events, it is imperative to prioritize the maintenance and enhancement of such infrastructure to build resilience and adaptability to future challenges in water resource management and climate resilience.

Year Completed

1968

Dam Length

600

Dam Height

28

River Or Stream

BUFFALO CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

15

Hydraulic Height

22.8

Drainage Area

876.8

Nid Storage

581.4

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

28
       
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.