Yonah
Key Takeaway
Yonah is classified as high hazard in Georgia. It was completed in 1925 and is 101 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 | 90 ft (taller than 99.3% in GA) |
| Dam Length | 980 ft |
| Dam Type | Gravity |
| Max Storage | 10.2K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 10.2K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 325 acres |
| Drainage Area | 470 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 106,000 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1925 (101 years old) |
| NID ID | GA00874 |
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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Low Hazard 31 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Yonah?
Yonah 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 Yonah?
Yonah is owned by Georgia Power Company (Public Utility). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Yonah built?
Yonah was completed in 1925, making it 101 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 Yonah?
Yonah 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 Yonah?
Yonah has a dam height of 90 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 Yonah last inspected?
Yonah was last inspected on March 8, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.