Etowah River 4 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Etowah River 4 is a vital flood risk reduction structure located in Gober, Forsyth County, Georgia.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Constructed in 1959 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 32 feet and spans 440 feet in length, providing critical protection to the surrounding area. With a storage capacity of 643 acre-feet and a drainage area of 2.38 square miles, the dam plays a key role in managing the flow of Bannister Creek and minimizing the risk of flooding for the community.

Despite its significant hazard potential, the condition assessment of Etowah River 4 is currently not available, highlighting the need for regular inspections and maintenance to ensure its continued effectiveness. The dam's spillway type is uncontrolled, with a width of 150 feet, and a maximum discharge capacity of 1040 cubic feet per second. While the risk assessment categorizes the structure as having a moderate risk level, there is a lack of detailed risk management measures and emergency action plans in place, emphasizing the importance of ongoing monitoring and preparedness efforts.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will appreciate the critical role that Etowah River 4 plays in flood risk reduction within the region. As a local government-owned structure funded and designed by the USDA NRCS, this dam serves as a key asset in safeguarding the community against potential flooding events. With its strategic location on Bannister Creek and its substantial storage capacity, the dam remains a vital piece of infrastructure that requires regular inspections and maintenance to ensure its continued functionality and resilience in the face of changing weather patterns and hydrological conditions.

Year Completed

1959

Dam Length

440

Dam Height

32

River Or Stream

Bannister Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

15

Drainage Area

2.38

Nid Storage

643

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

32
       
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.