[2] The dam is located just below the confluence of the Western and Main Branches of the Susquehanna River, in Upper Augusta Township, between the town of Shamokin Dam and the city of Sunbury, Pennsylvania.

When it is raised in the summer time, it creates the 3,000 acre (12 km2) Lake Augusta, which is used for recreation.

The fish ladder is primarily to allow the American shad to access the upper part of the Susquehanna.

This dam maintained an adequate water level for ferry traffic across the Susquehanna from Shamokin (now Sunbury) to the west bank.

It was destroyed in March, 1904 by the breakup of 22 inches (56 cm) of ice in the spring thaw.