Tallulah Falls Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Tallulah Falls, a stunning hydroelectric dam located in Georgia, was completed in 1913 and stands at a towering height of 140 feet.


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Summary

This Arch-type dam on the Tallulah River has a primary purpose of generating hydroelectric power, while also serving purposes such as fish and wildlife pond creation and recreation. With a storage capacity of 2450 acre-feet and a surface area of 63 acres, this dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region.

Owned by a public utility, Tallulah Falls Dam is regulated by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) and is inspected regularly to ensure its safety and functionality. With a controlled spillway width of 280 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 98,700 cubic feet per second, this dam is equipped to handle high hazard potential situations. Despite its age, Tallulah Falls Dam remains a vital infrastructure for water resource management, recreation, and power generation in the region, showcasing the importance of sustainable hydroelectric projects in the face of climate change challenges.

In the midst of growing concerns about climate change and water resource management, Tallulah Falls Dam stands as a testament to the sustainable utilization of natural resources for human needs. Its impressive design, historical significance, and essential role in providing clean energy underscore the importance of responsible dam construction and maintenance in the face of an uncertain environmental future. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, we must continue to advocate for the protection and preservation of vital infrastructure like Tallulah Falls Dam to ensure a sustainable and resilient future for generations to come.

Year Completed

1913

Dam Length

426

Dam Height

140

River Or Stream

Tallulah River

Primary Dam Type

Arch

Surface Area

63

Hydraulic Height

140

Drainage Area

186

Nid Storage

2450

Structural Height

140

Outlet Gates

Flap - 6

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

140
       
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.