However, advance reservations are required and photo identification must be presented at the time of the tour.
"Obviously space will be limited and tours will be booked on a first-call reservation system," said Michael Lapina, chief ranger. "Powerhouse tours have always been popular, and in honor of the 50th Anniversary of power production at the dam, we've decided to offer tours."
Tour groups will be limited to eight people per tour. There are seven time slots available.
"We will conduct three tours with three guides every 35 minutes," Lapina said. "That allows time for questions and gives people a chance to learn more about power production at Lake Lanier, which is one of the main purposes for creating the dam 50 years ago."
Those wishing to tour the Powerhouse must use the call-in reservation system. Times will be assigned and participants will be given full instructions when their tour time is confirmed. Tours will begin at 9 a.m.; the final tours of the day will take place beginning at 12:30 p.m.
Due to security measures that have been implemented at Buford Dam, Foreign Nationals will not be permitted to participate in the tours. If the nation's security threat level increases, the tours may have to be canceled.
"We're asking people to bring their photo identification the day of the tour," Lapina said. "No cameras will be allowed; however this is still a rare opportunity to see the dam and how it works to provide power."
To register for a time to tour the Buford Dam Powerhouse, call the Corps' Buford Project office at 770-945-9531.
http://accesswdun.com/article/2007/2/94892