The Clemson Upper Diversion Dam, located on the Seneca River in South Carolina, was completed in 1961 by the US Army Corps of Engineers for flood risk reduction purposes.
Wind
Humidity
Standing at 75 feet tall with a volume of 1,700,000 cubic yards, the dam plays a crucial role in preventing Lake Hartwell from flooding the lower elevations of Clemson University. The dam has undergone modifications over the years, including the installation of seismic shear walls to enhance stability during earthquakes and subsurface concrete cutoff walls to address seepage issues. While there is still a slight risk of seepage-related embankment failure, overall, the risk of dam failure is considered low.
The risk assessment conducted by USACE in 2018 categorized the Clemson Diversion Dams as low risk, with the Lower Diversion Dam Saddle Dike posing a moderate risk due to potential seepage-related erosion. Additionally, the USACE pumping station faces a small flood risk during heavy rain events, especially with recent development in low-lying areas of Clemson University. To mitigate these risks, USACE implements various risk management measures, including regular inspections, emergency action plan updates, and coordination with local and state emergency managers. Monitoring and maintenance efforts are focused on detecting and addressing any potential safety issues, with close collaboration with Clemson University personnel during storm events to manage pumping station operations effectively.
Year Completed |
1961 |
Dam Length |
2100 |
Dam Height |
75 |
River Or Stream |
SENECA RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
69 |
Drainage Area |
2088 |
Nid Storage |
3438700 |
Structural Height |
60 |
Outlet Gates |
None - 0 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock |
Nid Height |
75 |
Twelvemile Creek Near Liberty
|
85cfs |
Saluda River Near Williamston
|
458cfs |
Saluda River Near Greenville
|
348cfs |
Rocky River Nr Starr
|
58cfs |
Chattooga River Near Clayton
|
301cfs |
South Saluda River Near Cleveland
|
11cfs |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Twin Lakes - Hartwell Lake
|
||
Oconee Point - Hartwell Lake
|
||
Coneross - Hartwell Lake
|
||
South Cove
|
||
South Cove County Park
|
||
High Falls County Park
|