Richard B. Russell Dam - Saddle Dike Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Richard B.


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Summary

Russell Dam - Saddle Dike, located in Elbert, Georgia, along the Savannah River, is a Federal-owned structure designed by CESAS and managed by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Completed in 1986, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 25 feet and spans 1070 feet, serving primarily for hydroelectric power generation.

With a high hazard potential, this dam plays a crucial role in flood risk reduction, water supply, and recreation in the region. The dam has a storage capacity of 1,488,166 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 1,026,200 acre-feet. Although the condition assessment is not available, emergency preparedness measures, including an Emergency Action Plan, are in place to ensure the safety and security of the surrounding area.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Richard B. Russell Dam - Saddle Dike is a significant infrastructure contributing to the management of the Savannah River watershed. Its operation and maintenance by the US Army Corps of Engineers underscore its importance in supporting various purposes such as fish and wildlife habitat enhancement, flood control, and sustainable water supply for the local community.

Year Completed

1986

Dam Length

1070

Dam Height

25

River Or Stream

Savannah River

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

25

Nid Storage

1488166

Structural Height

25

Outlet Gates

None - 0

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

25
       
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.