Tallulah Falls
Key Takeaway
Tallulah Falls is classified as high hazard in Georgia. It was completed in 1913 and is 113 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 | 140 ft (taller than 99.9% in GA) |
| Dam Length | 426 ft |
| Dam Type | Arch |
| Max Storage | 2.5K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 2.4K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 63 acres |
| Drainage Area | 186 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 98,700 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1913 (113 years old) |
| NID ID | GA00855 |
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 Tallulah Falls?
Tallulah Falls 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 Tallulah Falls?
Tallulah Falls is owned by Georgia Power Company (Public Utility). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Tallulah Falls built?
Tallulah Falls was completed in 1913, making it 113 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 Tallulah Falls?
Tallulah Falls 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 Tallulah Falls?
Tallulah Falls has a dam height of 140 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 Tallulah Falls last inspected?
Tallulah Falls was last inspected on March 29, 2023. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.