|
Based on current and future population projections for both Walton and Oconee, existing water supply resources will likely be depleted due to anticipated growth. The visionary leadership of both counties realize that this critical partnership would not only serve to provide for the future water supply demands of the region, but would also result in a significant cost savings for both local governments through the sharing of project costs.
|
|
|
The proposed dam will be approximately 1,900 feet long and 98 feet high. The reservoir pool will cover approximately 1,367 acres, with 42 miles of shoreline. At full capacity, the reservoir will hold 12 billion gallons of water, and will yield 62 million gallons of peak day water supply capacity.
|
|
|
The current and future customers of the Walton County Water and Sewerage Authority, Oconee County Utility Department, and other regional wholesale customers including the City of Loganville, City of Social Circle and the City of Jersey. Other regional communities that have expressed an interest in future water supply from the project include City of Winder, Barrow County and Morgan County.
|
|
|
Hard Labor Creek Regional Reservoir – Phase I Project Schedule
|
|
Phase 1 (Includes Reservoir and 14 MGD WTF)
|
Start
|
Completion
|
|
Land Acquisition
|
2005
|
2013
|
|
Reservoir Design/Construction
|
2013
|
2015
|
|
Reservoir Fills
|
2015
|
2016
|
|
|
|
Currently it is estimated that the design and construction of the dam, initial water treatment plant and transmission system will cost approximately $170 million. Project costs will be split on a 71.2/28.8 percent basis between Walton and Oconee Counties respectively.
|
|
|
The primary benefit to both of the Counties is the creation of a long-term water supply that will also serve as a back-up supply during drought. Water resources can be managed more efficiently as well since extra water can be stored in the reservoir when river levels are higher and demand for water is not. This will ensure a consistent water supply in the area when river levels are lower and demand for water is greater. Because the reservoir is located in Walton County, the County also receives some additional benefits, such as: - Economic development – developers and businesses considering locating in Walton County will be confident of sufficient water to meet growing needs
- Sustainable growth – Walton and Oconee Counties projected water supply needs can be met through 2060
- Quality of life – local residents will gain a valuable recreational asset
|
|
|
Because waterways don’t follow government-drawn boundaries, the water resources of a given area may serve more than just one city or county. Through regional water supply partnerships, communities can reduce the overall cost of water source development, while having less impact on the environment.
|
|
|
The initial estimate for the time it will take to fill the Hard Labor Creek Regional Reservoir is 2 1/2 to 3 years depending on rainfall. The Georgia Safe Dams Program sets guidelines for safely filling a reservoir. The rate is based on the height of the dam. For the first one-third of it, the reservoir can be filled at an uncontrolled rate. The maximum rate for the second third is two feet per week; for the final third it’s one foot per week. This controlled pace helps assure the safety of the dam in holding back the water.
|
|
|
Although a final decision has not been made on the recreational activities that will be provided in the area of Hard Labor Creek Regional Reservoir, the proposed activities will likely include: electric or self-propelled boats, fishing, picnicking, camping in specified areas, and other passive recreational uses. Because the reservoir’s primary purpose is drinking water supply, there will be some limits to recreational activities to protect water quality. Activities that will not be allowed include: the use of boats powered by gas, diesel, or other internal combustion engines; swimming, diving, snorkeling, or scuba diving; and hunting.
The Reservoir Management Plan has been approved by the Georgia Environmental Protection Division and is available in PDF Version.
|
|
|
