Augusta Diversion Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

The Augusta Diversion Dam, located in Augusta, Georgia along the Savannah River, was completed in 1857 for the primary purpose of generating hydroelectric power.


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Summary

This masonry dam stands at a height of 11.5 feet and has a storage capacity of 1520 acre-feet, serving both hydroelectric and water supply purposes. With a significant hazard potential due to its age and design, the dam is under the jurisdiction of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) for regulatory oversight and inspections.

Owned by the local government, the Augusta Diversion Dam is a key structure in the region, providing essential water resources and power generation capabilities. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 1666 feet and is situated in Columbia County, Georgia. With a moderate risk assessment rating, efforts are in place to ensure the safety and integrity of the dam through emergency action plans and regular inspections.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Augusta Diversion Dam is a historic landmark that plays a crucial role in harnessing the power of the Savannah River for sustainable energy production and water management. As part of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission's oversight, the dam continues to be a focal point for ensuring the safety and reliability of water resources in the region, highlighting the intersection of infrastructure, sustainability, and environmental stewardship in water resource management.

Year Completed

1857

Dam Length

1670

Dam Height

11.5

River Or Stream

Savannah River

Primary Dam Type

Masonry

Surface Area

190

Hydraulic Height

11.5

Drainage Area

7173

Nid Storage

1520

Structural Height

11.5

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

12
       
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.