New Savannah Bluff Lock And Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

The New Savannah Bluff Lock and Dam, located in Augusta, Georgia, was completed in 1937 by the US Army Corps of Engineers.


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Summary

This concrete gravity dam serves primarily as a water supply source, with a storage capacity of 11,610 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 9,600 acre-feet. The dam, standing at 70 feet tall and spanning 360 feet in length, also supports recreational activities along the Savannah River.

Despite its age and deteriorating condition, a risk assessment conducted by the USACE in 2014 classified the dam's risk of failure as low due to its limited downstream impacts. However, the structure displays signs of aging, with significant cracking in the spillway piers and erosion around the lock wall base. USACE actively manages these risks through regular inspections, emergency preparedness measures, and ongoing training to ensure the safety and stability of the dam.

While the consequences of a potential failure are deemed relatively minimal, the USACE remains vigilant in monitoring and maintaining the New Savannah Bluff Lock and Dam to mitigate any risks. Through collaboration with local emergency managers, updated emergency action plans, and periodic training for project personnel, the USACE is committed to ensuring the continued safe operation of this critical water resource infrastructure.

Year Completed

1937

Dam Length

360

Dam Height

16

River Or Stream

SAVANNAH RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

1000

Length Of Locks

360

Hydraulic Height

25

Drainage Area

7508

Nid Storage

11610

Structural Height

70

Outlet Gates

Vertical Lift - 0

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

70
       
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.