Saddle Dam A Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Saddle Dam A, located in Rabun, Georgia, is a vital structure that serves multiple purposes, including hydroelectric power generation, fish and wildlife habitat support, and recreational activities.


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Summary

Built in 1925, this earth dam stands at a height of 78 feet and has a storage capacity of 31,000 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 27,250 acre-feet. The dam spans 370 feet in length and covers a surface area of 834 acres along the Tallulah River, contributing to the overall water resource management in the region.

Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), Saddle Dam A poses a high hazard potential and is subject to regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity and safety. While the condition assessment is currently not available, emergency action plans have been prepared and updated to mitigate risks associated with the dam. Despite its age, the dam continues to play a crucial role in supporting the local ecosystem, providing clean energy, and offering recreational opportunities for the community. Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will appreciate the significance of Saddle Dam A in balancing the needs of energy production, wildlife conservation, and public recreation.

Year Completed

1925

Dam Length

370

Dam Height

78

River Or Stream

Tallulah River

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

834

Hydraulic Height

10

Nid Storage

31000

Structural Height

78

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

78
       
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.