Allatoona Dam - Saddle Dike Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Allatoona Dam - Saddle Dike, located in Bartow, Georgia, is a gravity dam constructed in 1965 by the US Army Corps of Engineers for flood risk reduction on the Etowah River.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

With a height of 37 feet and a storage capacity of 670,050 acre-feet, the dam serves multiple purposes including flood risk reduction, hydroelectric power generation, recreation, and water supply. Despite its high hazard potential, the dam does not have a spillway and relies on controlled releases to manage water levels.

The US Army Corps of Engineers actively manages the dam's flood risks by monitoring its condition, prioritizing risk-reducing activities, and engaging with local emergency managers and the public to raise awareness and preparedness. Regular inspections, maintenance, and updates to the emergency action plan are key components of the risk management strategy. While the dam poses inherent risks during severe weather events and high-water inflows, the USACE is committed to addressing all types of flood risks associated with the dam to ensure its structural integrity and safety for downstream communities.

As a vital infrastructure project in the region, Allatoona Dam - Saddle Dike highlights the importance of proactive risk management and collaboration between federal agencies, local authorities, and the public to mitigate potential flood disasters and safeguard water resources. With a continuous focus on monitoring, maintenance, and emergency preparedness, the US Army Corps of Engineers remains dedicated to ensuring the resilience and reliability of the dam for the surrounding communities and the environment.

Years Modified

2011 - Other

Year Completed

1965

Dam Length

2300

Dam Height

37

River Or Stream

ETOWAH

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

11862

Hydraulic Height

33.4

Drainage Area

1122

Nid Storage

670050

Structural Height

37

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

37
       
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.