Hartwell Dam - Saddle Dike 2 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Hartwell Dam - Saddle Dike 2, located in Hart, Georgia, is a crucial structure within the Savannah River watershed managed by the US Army Corps of Engineers.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Completed in 1962, this earth dam stands at 36 feet tall and spans 1840 feet, serving primarily for hydroelectric power generation. With a maximum storage capacity of 3,438,700 acre-feet and a normal storage of 2,550,000 acre-feet, the dam plays a key role in flood risk reduction, water supply, recreation, and fish and wildlife conservation in the region.

Despite its importance, Hartwell Dam - Saddle Dike 2 poses a high hazard potential, prompting regular inspections every 5 years to ensure its structural integrity. Emergency action plans have been prepared and updated to meet established guidelines, with inundation maps in place for risk assessment and management. The dam, with its stone core type, plays a critical role in water resource management within the region, highlighting the significance of its operations and maintenance by the US Army Corps of Engineers.

In the face of climate change and increasing water resource challenges, the significance of Hartwell Dam - Saddle Dike 2 as a key infrastructure for the Savannah River cannot be understated. As a focal point for hydroelectric power generation and multiple water management purposes, the dam underscores the importance of sustainable water resource management practices and proactive risk mitigation measures to ensure the safety and resilience of the surrounding communities and ecosystems in the face of evolving climatic conditions.

Year Completed

1962

Dam Length

1840

Dam Height

36

River Or Stream

Savannah River

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

36

Nid Storage

3438700

Structural Height

36

Outlet Gates

None - 0

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

36
       
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.