Ellijay River Ws Str # 12 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Ellijay River WS Str # 12, located in Gilmer, Georgia, is a state-owned dam that was completed in 1968 by the Natural Resources Conservation Service.
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Summary
This earth dam, standing at a height of 79 feet and stretching 332 feet in length, serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction along Laurel Creek. With a storage capacity of 832 acre-feet and a drainage area of 1408 acres, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water flow and mitigating flood risks in the region.
Despite its high hazard potential and poor condition assessment, Ellijay River WS Str # 12 is subject to regular state inspections, permitting, and enforcement to ensure its structural integrity and safety. The dam's uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates pose challenges in managing water discharge during heavy rainfall events. With a moderate risk assessment rating, the dam is deemed to require attention and potential risk management measures to address its current condition and improve its overall safety for nearby communities and the environment.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the significance of Ellijay River WS Str # 12 in flood risk reduction and water management is essential. With its historical construction by the SCS and ongoing state regulatory oversight by the GA-SAFE DAMS PROGRAM, this dam stands as a critical infrastructure piece in preserving the ecological balance and protecting downstream communities from potential flood events. Continuous monitoring and maintenance efforts are vital to ensure the long-term functionality and safety of this important water resource structure in Georgia.
Year Completed |
1968 |
Dam Length |
332 |
Dam Height |
79 |
River Or Stream |
LAUREL CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
3 |
Drainage Area |
1408 |
Nid Storage |
832 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
79 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Toccoa River Near Dial
|
279cfs |
Cartecay River Near Ellijay
|
181cfs |
Ocoee River At Copperhill
|
301cfs |
Coosawattee River Near Ellijay
|
311cfs |
Fausett Creek Near Talking Rock
|
19cfs |
Mill Creek Near Crandall
|
11cfs |
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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Ellijay River Ws Str # 12