Wallace

Oconee· Hancock, Georgia· Built 1980· Gravity· 120 ft tall
High Hazard Hydroelectric Recreation Water Supply Public Utility

Key Takeaway

Wallace is classified as high hazard in Georgia. It was completed in 1980 and is 46 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 120 ft (taller than 99.7% in GA)
Dam Length2,395 ft
Dam TypeGravity
Max Storage400.0K acre-ft
Normal Storage370.0K acre-ft
Surface Area19,050 acres
Drainage Area1,830 sq mi
Max Discharge316,800 cfs
Year Completed1980 (46 years old)
NID IDGA00854

Safety Information

High Hazard

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?

Emergency Action Plan: Yes
Last Inspection: September 19, 2022
State Regulated: No

Ownership

Georgia Power Company

Public Utility

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Wallace?

Wallace 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 Wallace?

Wallace is owned by Georgia Power Company (Public Utility). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Wallace built?

Wallace was completed in 1980, making it 46 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 Wallace?

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

How tall is Wallace?

Wallace has a dam height of 120 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 Wallace last inspected?

Wallace was last inspected on September 19, 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.