Buford Dam - Saddle Dike 2 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Buford Dam - Saddle Dike 2, located in Forsyth, Georgia, was completed in 1958 by the US Army Corps of Engineers as an earth dam on the Chattahoochee River.


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Summary

Standing at a height of 48 feet with a hydraulic height of 42 feet, this dam plays a crucial role in water storage and management, with a capacity of 2,554,000 acre-feet. The dam is associated with two other structures and is part of the US Army Corps of Engineers' efforts to address flood risks and maintain the structural integrity of the dam.

With a high hazard potential, Buford Dam - Saddle Dike 2 undergoes regular inspections and has an Emergency Action Plan in place. The US Army Corps of Engineers actively manages flood risks associated with the dam by monitoring its condition, prioritizing maintenance activities, and collaborating with local emergency managers to ensure preparedness in case of a dam-related emergency. The agency also engages with the public to raise awareness and support emergency response efforts, highlighting the importance of ongoing maintenance and risk management measures to ensure the safety and functionality of the dam.

As severe weather events can lead to increased water levels and potential dam releases, the US Army Corps of Engineers remains committed to addressing all types of flood risks associated with Buford Dam - Saddle Dike 2. By working closely with local stakeholders and continually updating emergency action plans, the agency aims to mitigate risks and maintain the dam's ability to manage water levels effectively. More detailed information specific to this dam will be provided in the future, highlighting the ongoing efforts to safeguard the surrounding area from potential flooding impacts.

Year Completed

1958

Dam Length

2300

Dam Height

48

River Or Stream

Chattahoochee

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

42

Drainage Area

1034

Nid Storage

2554000

Structural Height

48

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

48
       
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.