Augusta Diversion Dam

Savannah River· Columbia, Georgia· Built 1857· Masonry· 12 ft tall
Significant Hazard Hydroelectric Water Supply Local Government

Key Takeaway

Augusta Diversion Dam is classified as significant hazard in Georgia. It was completed in 1857 and is 169 years old. Its primary use is hydroelectric. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 12 ft (taller than 9.4% in GA)
Dam Length1,670 ft
Dam TypeMasonry
Normal Storage1.5K acre-ft
Surface Area190 acres
Drainage Area7,173 sq mi
Year Completed1857 (169 years old)
NID IDGA00174

Safety Information

Significant Hazard

No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities.

Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?

Emergency Action Plan: Yes
Last Inspection: March 9, 2022
State Regulated: No

Ownership

City of Augusta, Georgia

Local Government

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Augusta Diversion Dam?

Augusta Diversion Dam is classified as Significant Hazard. No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.

Who owns and operates Augusta Diversion Dam?

Augusta Diversion Dam is owned by City of Augusta, Georgia (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Augusta Diversion Dam built?

Augusta Diversion Dam was completed in 1857, making it 169 years old. Many U.S. dams were built between the 1930s and 1970s during a period of major infrastructure investment.

What is the primary purpose of Augusta Diversion Dam?

Augusta Diversion Dam serves the following purposes: Hydroelectric, Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

How tall is Augusta Diversion Dam?

Augusta Diversion Dam has a dam height of 12 ft. Dam height is measured from the natural streambed at the downstream toe to the top of the dam, and may differ from the visible height.

When was Augusta Diversion Dam last inspected?

Augusta Diversion Dam was last inspected on March 9, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.

Data from the National Inventory of Dams (NID) maintained by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Dam conditions may have changed since the last update. This site is not affiliated with USACE. Do not use for emergency planning — contact your local dam safety program.