Wallace Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Wallace, also known as Laurens Shoals, is a captivating hydroelectric dam located in Hancock, Georgia, along the Oconee River.


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Summary

Built in 1980 by the Georgia Power Company and Southern Company Services, this gravity dam stands at a towering height of 120 feet and boasts a storage capacity of 400,000 acre-feet. With a primary purpose of hydroelectric power generation, Wallace also serves as a recreational area and a vital source of water supply for the region.

The dam's controlled spillway, with a width of 258 feet, ensures efficient water management during peak discharge periods. Its stone core and rock and soil foundations contribute to its structural integrity, while the five Tainter radial gates provide control over water flow. Despite its high hazard potential, Wallace has not undergone a recent condition assessment, underscoring the need for ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure its safety and resilience in the face of climate change and extreme weather events.

Under the oversight of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Wallace continues to play a crucial role in supporting the energy needs and water resources of Georgia. With its impressive scale, strategic design, and multi-functional capabilities, Wallace stands as a testament to the intersection of human ingenuity, environmental stewardship, and sustainable water management in the face of a changing climate.

Year Completed

1980

Dam Length

2395

Dam Height

120

River Or Stream

Oconee

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

19050

Hydraulic Height

95

Drainage Area

1830

Nid Storage

400000

Structural Height

120

Outlet Gates

Tainter (radial) - 5

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

120
       
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.
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