Nacoochee
Key Takeaway
Nacoochee is classified as high hazard in Georgia. It was completed in 1926 and is 100 years old. Its primary use is hydroelectric. High hazard means loss of life is likely if the dam fails — it does not indicate the dam's current condition. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 75 ft (taller than 98.8% in GA) |
| Dam Length | 490 ft |
| Dam Type | Gravity |
| Max Storage | 8.3K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 8.3K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 260 acres |
| Drainage Area | 136 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 24,500 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1926 (100 years old) |
| NID ID | GA00861 |
Safety Information
Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
Georgia Power Company
Public Utility
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What is the hazard classification of Nacoochee?
Nacoochee is classified as High Hazard. Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Nacoochee?
Nacoochee is owned by Georgia Power Company (Public Utility). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Nacoochee built?
Nacoochee was completed in 1926, making it 100 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 Nacoochee?
Nacoochee serves the following purposes: Hydroelectric, Fish And Wildlife Pond, Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Nacoochee?
Nacoochee has a dam height of 75 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 Nacoochee last inspected?
Nacoochee was last inspected on March 28, 2023. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.