Little River Watershed Structure No. 31 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Located in Fulton, Georgia, Little River Watershed Structure No.


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Summary

31, also known as Starnes Dam, was completed in 1962 with the primary purpose of flood risk reduction. This earth dam stands at a height of 34.4 feet and has a hydraulic height of 27.9 feet, serving as a vital structure in managing water resources in the area. With a drainage area of 2,099 acres and a storage capacity of 1,143 acre-feet, this dam plays a crucial role in regulating water levels and protecting the surrounding community from potential flooding events.

Despite its importance, Little River Watershed Structure No. 31 is currently assessed to be in poor condition, posing an undetermined hazard potential. The last inspection in June 2017 revealed the need for maintenance and further assessment to ensure the structural integrity and safety of the dam. With a moderate risk assessment rating of 3, there is a pressing need for risk management measures to be implemented to address any potential vulnerabilities and safeguard the local area from the impacts of a dam failure. The dam is under state regulation and inspection, highlighting the commitment to ensuring its continued functionality and safety for the community.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts monitor the status of Little River Watershed Structure No. 31, there is a growing awareness of the importance of maintaining and managing critical infrastructure to mitigate risks and protect against potential disasters. With an emphasis on flood risk reduction and water management, this dam serves as a key component in the overall resilience of the region's water resources. Efforts to address the poor condition of the dam and implement necessary risk management measures are essential to safeguarding the community and ensuring the long-term sustainability of water resources in the area.

Year Completed

1962

Dam Length

565

Dam Height

34.4

River Or Stream

Unknown

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

29.4

Hydraulic Height

27.9

Drainage Area

2099

Nid Storage

1143

Structural Height

27.9

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Undetermined

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

34
       
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.