Georgia's Flood Control Dams: Saving Money, Saving Lives

Soil and Water Conservation Districts in Georgia control 357 flood control dams. Watershed dams provide flood control, water quality, recreation, and water supply benefits to Georgia citizens. Many of the dams, which were originally built to protect agricultural land from flooding, now protect homes, roads, and office buildings where dam failure could result in the loss of human life. In some cases, flood control dams have been reconfigured to be used as possible sources of water supply for local communities. As these dams age, the risk for flooding increases. The Georgia Soil and Water Conservation Commission is working to collaborate with local community leaders to rehabilitate Georgia's flood control dams in an effort to protect citizens and natural resources.