Cartecay River Ws Str # 3 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Cartecay River Ws Str # 1 Pettit
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Located in Gilmer, Georgia, Cartecay River WS Str # 3 is a state-regulated earth dam with a primary purpose of flood risk reduction on Holden Creek.
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Summary
Built in 1965 and designed by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, this dam stands at a height of 79 feet and has a storage capacity of 1750 acre-feet. With a drainage area of 4225 acres, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water levels and protecting surrounding areas from potential flooding.
Despite its important function, Cartecay River WS Str # 3 is currently assessed as being in poor condition, with a high hazard potential and a moderate risk level. The last inspection in March 2016 highlighted the need for attention and potential risk management measures to ensure the dam's continued effectiveness in flood risk reduction. With its location in a climate-sensitive area and its critical role in water resource management, the ongoing maintenance and assessment of this dam are essential for the safety and well-being of the community and the environment.
As an integral part of Georgia's infrastructure for flood risk reduction, Cartecay River WS Str # 3 serves as a reminder of the importance of proactive monitoring and maintenance of water resources in the face of changing climate patterns. With its history of federal oversight and state regulation, this dam stands as a testament to the ongoing efforts to mitigate flood risks and protect communities from the potential impacts of extreme weather events. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding and advocating for the resilience of infrastructure like Cartecay River WS Str # 3 is essential for building a sustainable future in the face of environmental challenges.
Year Completed |
1965 |
Dam Length |
535 |
Dam Height |
79 |
River Or Stream |
HOLDEN CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
7 |
Drainage Area |
4225 |
Nid Storage |
1750 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
79 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Cartecay River Near Ellijay
|
181cfs |
Toccoa River Near Dial
|
279cfs |
Coosawattee River Near Ellijay
|
311cfs |
Fausett Creek Near Talking Rock
|
19cfs |
Amicalola Creek Near Dawsonville
|
112cfs |
Talking Rock Creek Near Hinton
|
84cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
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Cartecay River Ws Str # 3