Milstead Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Milstead is a private hydroelectric dam located in Rockdale, Georgia, along the Yellow River.


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Summary

Completed in 1925, this gravity dam stands at 17 feet tall with a hydraulic height of 43 feet and a length of 256 feet. The dam has a storage capacity of 225 acre-feet and serves the primary purpose of generating hydroelectric power. Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Milstead has a low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment rating.

With a maximum discharge of 4704 cubic feet per second and an uncontrolled spillway width of 196 feet, Milstead plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region. The dam covers a surface area of 18 acres and has a drainage area of 210 square miles. Despite its age, Milstead has not undergone recent condition assessments, but its emergency action plan was last revised in December 2019. The dam is not owned or regulated by the state of Georgia and does not require state permitting, inspection, or enforcement.

Milstead's historical significance, structural features, and operational purpose make it a notable site for water resource and climate enthusiasts. As a privately owned hydroelectric facility, Milstead contributes to the region's renewable energy production while also providing flood control and water storage benefits. Its location along the Yellow River and affiliation with the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission highlight the interconnectedness of water infrastructure, energy generation, and environmental stewardship in the area.

Year Completed

1925

Dam Length

256

Dam Height

17

River Or Stream

Yellow River

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

18

Hydraulic Height

43

Drainage Area

210

Nid Storage

225

Structural Height

17

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

43
       
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.