Etowah River 1 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Etowah River 1, located in Forsyth, Georgia, is a vital flood risk reduction structure managed by the local government and supported by the USDA NRCS.


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Summary

Completed in 1969, this earth dam stands at 48 feet tall and stretches 475 feet in length, holding a maximum storage capacity of 1613 acre-feet. With a normal storage capacity of 237 acre-feet and a drainage area of 6.1 square miles, the dam serves as a crucial component in managing water flow and preventing flooding in the area.

The dam's spillway, measuring 150 feet in width, is uncontrolled, allowing excess water to safely pass through when water levels rise. Despite its high hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, the condition assessment of Etowah River 1 is currently not available, highlighting the importance of regular inspections and maintenance to ensure its continued effectiveness in flood risk reduction. As an essential structure in protecting the surrounding community from potential water-related disasters, Etowah River 1 plays a significant role in safeguarding the environment and residents of Hightower and its neighboring areas.

With its strategic location on Brewton Creek and its maximum discharge capacity of 1610 cubic feet per second, Etowah River 1 exemplifies the collaborative efforts between local government, federal agencies, and the community to manage water resources effectively and mitigate the impacts of climate change. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the significance of structures like Etowah River 1 is essential in promoting sustainable water management practices and ensuring the resilience of our infrastructure in the face of evolving environmental challenges.

Year Completed

1969

Dam Length

475

Dam Height

48

River Or Stream

Brewton Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

37

Drainage Area

6.1

Nid Storage

1613

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

48
       
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.