Canton To Close Public Access To Hickory Log Creek Reservoir

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Starting Oct. 5, the Hickory Log Creek Reservoir in Canton will be closed to public access so staff can perform inspection and maintenance on the spillway gates on the dam.

The gate manufacturer recommends the bolts be inspected every five years to ensure safety of the dam and operability of the gates, the city said on Friday.

However, before the inspection can take place, the city will need to lower the water level of the reservoir to about seven feet below full pool. This action will result in the temporary closure of public access to the reservoir at the boat launch site on Bluffs Parkway at Fate Conn Road.

There are no other public access points on the reservoir.

It will take approximately one month to lower the water level to the point at which dam inspection can take place. This controlled release will be made to the Etowah River, according to requirements in the project’s permit.

The inspection will then take up to one week, assuming no problems are found. Upon completion of the inspection and maintenance, water will be pumped from the Etowah River to return the reservoir level to full pool, provided conditions in the Etowah River allow for withdrawal of water.

It is expected to take a minimum of one to two months to refill the reservoir, the city added.

“Inspection of the bolts on the crest gates every five years is part of regularly scheduled operation and maintenance of the dam,” said David Hatabian, city of Canton engineer and reservoir manager. “The city of Canton appreciates the public’s patience, and we apologize for any inconvenience this might cause.”

Hatabian added the city will also use the opportunity to make improvements to the ramp at the public access area.

The Hickory Log Creek Reservoir covers 411 acres, features almost 15 miles of shoreline and holds nearly 6 billion gallons of water. It is owned and operated by the city of Canton and the Cobb County-Marietta Water Authority.

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Graphic via city of Canton