High Shoals Upper Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

High Shoals Upper Dam, located in High Shoals, Georgia, is a privately owned structure on the Apalachee River, built in 1920 for hydroelectric purposes.


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Summary

Standing at 15 feet tall and stretching 565 feet in length, this gravity dam with a multi-arch core rests on a rock foundation. With a storage capacity of 182 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 19,000 cubic feet per second, the dam serves as a key feature in the region's water resource management and energy production.

Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, High Shoals Upper Dam has a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating. While its condition assessment is not currently available, the dam undergoes inspections every three years to ensure its structural integrity and safety. The spillway, with a width of 187 feet, is uncontrolled, allowing for the controlled release of water during periods of excess flow. Despite not being regulated by the state, the dam plays a crucial role in the local ecosystem and water supply, making it a significant site for water resource and climate enthusiasts to study and monitor.

Year Completed

1920

Dam Length

565

Dam Height

15

River Or Stream

Apalachee River

Surface Area

40.5

Hydraulic Height

11

Drainage Area

151

Nid Storage

182

Structural Height

11

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

15
       
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.