Winnfield Scott Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Winnfield Scott is a federally owned structure located in Union, Georgia, specifically in the city of Blairsville.


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Summary

Built in 1935 by the USDA Forest Service, this Earth dam serves the primary purpose of creating a Fish and Wildlife Pond, with additional benefits for recreation. The dam stands at a height of 31 feet and has a length of 242 feet, with a storage capacity of 190 acre-feet and a surface area of 19 acres.

The dam is situated on Cooper Creek and is managed by the Nashville District of the US Army Corps of Engineers. Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, the structure underwent a hydraulic modification in 2010. With a maximum discharge capacity of 1500 cubic feet per second and an uncontrolled spillway, Winnfield Scott is equipped to handle moderate risk levels. The last inspection in 2015 deemed its condition as not rated, highlighting the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance for water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the sustainability of this vital infrastructure.

Years Modified

2010 - Hydraulic

Year Completed

1935

Dam Length

242

Dam Height

31

River Or Stream

COOPER CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

19

Hydraulic Height

31

Drainage Area

3

Nid Storage

190

Structural Height

31

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

31
       
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.