Buford Dam - Saddle Dike 1 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Buford Dam - Saddle Dike 1, located in Forsyth, Georgia, is a federal-owned earth dam completed in 1958 as part of the Chattahoochee River system managed by the US Army Corps of Engineers.


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Summary

Standing at a height of 36 feet and with a hydraulic height of 30 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 2,554,000 acre-feet and serves the primary purpose of water resource management. With a high hazard potential, the dam is monitored and maintained by the US Army Corps of Engineers to address flood risks and ensure structural integrity.

The dam is associated with two other structures and is part of the larger Buford Dam complex that regulates water flow along the Chattahoochee River. The US Army Corps of Engineers implements risk management measures to mitigate potential hazards, including regular inspections, emergency action plans, and coordination with local emergency managers for preparedness and response. While dams cannot eliminate all flood risks, the USACE works diligently to manage water levels, prevent dam failures, and ensure the safety of communities downstream.

As a vital component of the water infrastructure in Georgia, Buford Dam - Saddle Dike 1 plays a crucial role in flood control and water supply management. With ongoing monitoring and maintenance efforts, the dam continues to safeguard the surrounding areas from potential risks associated with severe weather events and fluctuating water levels. The US Army Corps of Engineers remains committed to protecting the dam and the communities it serves by implementing proactive risk management strategies and maintaining readiness for any potential emergencies.

Year Completed

1958

Dam Length

2300

Dam Height

36

River Or Stream

Chattahoochee

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

30

Drainage Area

1034

Nid Storage

2554000

Structural Height

36

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

36
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.