Corps to conduct gate test

The COE Savannah District will conduct a required safety test on the spillway gates of Hartwell Dam after the Fishing Pier dedication ceremony. The test will ensure the gates work properly and can be activated in the event of an emergency to protect the dam and people and property downstream. The test is required annually as part of the Corps of Engineers Dam Safety Program but has been postponed due to drought. The last such test was conducted in 2007.  During the test all 12 spillway gates will be opened.

For public safety, the Highway 29 bridge will be closed to pedestrians during the gate test. Cars will not be allowed to stop. Observation points for the test include the new pier and the walking trails atop the earthen portions of the dam on both sides of the river. Those who plan to attend should park at the South Carolina Dam Viewing Area, or (in Georgia) at the Georgia River Recreation Area.