Corps to conduct Spillway Gate Tests today

The Savannah District of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers conducts limited engineering and operations tests on spillway gates at Hartwell Dam, near Hartwell, Georgia, today, Aug. 25. Workers conduct the tests at approximately 10am. Unlike previous tests conducted at full pool, these tests at Hartwell Dam will only have a few gates open at a time. These non-typical tests will help conserve water in the reservoirs while still meeting minimum requirements. The duration of the tests could be as little as 30 minutes or could extend much longer depending on exact sequencing. “Our safety regulations require us to test the spillway gates annually to ensure they are in proper working order in case a high-water event requires timely releases from the reservoirs,” Beth Williams, project engineer for the tests, said. “This also gives us an opportunity to ensure our operations staff remains familiar with gate operating procedures and that the entire system operates as designed.” Areas around the dam normally open to the public will remain open during the tests. Officials warn visitors to exercise extreme caution downstream from the dam during the tests because fast moving, rising water may pose a safety hazard. Boaters should move back from the dam during the tests because water will be very turbulent.