Carters Main Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Carters Main Dam, also known as Carters Lake, is a Federal-owned hydroelectric dam located in Murray, Georgia.


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Summary

Completed in 1974, this rockfill dam stands at a structural height of 464 feet and has a maximum storage capacity of 472,800 acre-feet. The dam serves multiple purposes, including flood risk reduction, hydroelectric power generation, and recreation.

Managed by the US Army Corps of Engineers, Carters Main Dam is a critical structure on the Coosawattee River, providing essential water management services in the region. With a controlled spillway and a hazard potential rated as high, the dam is subject to regular inspections and risk assessments to ensure its safety and effectiveness. The Corps implements various risk management measures, including monitoring dam health, collaborating with emergency managers, and updating emergency action plans to mitigate potential flood risks.

Overall, Carters Main Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management and climate resilience efforts in Georgia. As a key hydroelectric facility, the dam supports energy production while also safeguarding communities from flooding events. Through proactive risk management and continuous maintenance, the US Army Corps of Engineers upholds the safety and functionality of this vital infrastructure for the benefit of all stakeholders.

Year Completed

1974

Dam Length

1950

River Or Stream

COOSAWATTEE RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Rockfill

Surface Area

3275

Hydraulic Height

463

Drainage Area

373

Nid Storage

472800

Structural Height

464

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

464
       
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.