Sinclair Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Sinclair, also known as Furman Shoals, is a captivating hydroelectric dam located in Milledgeville, Georgia on the Oconee River.


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Summary

Built in 1953 with a dam height of 104 feet and a hydraulic height of 92 feet, it serves multiple purposes including hydroelectric power generation, recreation, and water supply. The dam has a storage capacity of 490,000 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 15,330 acres, making it a crucial water resource infrastructure in the region.

Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Sinclair Dam has a controlled spillway with a width of 870 feet and 24 Tainter (radial) outlet gates. With a hazard potential rated as high and a risk assessment indicating very high risk, the dam requires regular inspections and emergency action plans to ensure public safety. Despite its age, Sinclair Dam continues to play a vital role in water management and energy production in the area, showcasing the importance of sustainable water resource infrastructure in the face of climate change and increasing water demands.

As a gravity-type dam with a rock foundation, Sinclair Dam stands as a testament to engineering excellence and the importance of proactive risk management in the face of potential hazards. The dam's location in Baldwin County, Georgia, coupled with its significant storage capacity and drainage area, highlights its crucial role in water management and flood control in the region. With its rich history and ongoing importance, Sinclair Dam remains a key player in the sustainable development and utilization of water resources in Georgia.

Year Completed

1953

Dam Length

2988

Dam Height

104

River Or Stream

Oconee

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

15330

Hydraulic Height

92

Drainage Area

2910

Nid Storage

490000

Structural Height

105

Outlet Gates

Tainter (radial) - 24

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

105
       
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.