Lake Lanier Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Lake Lanier Dam, located in Greenville, South Carolina, is a gravity dam completed in 1923 with a primary purpose of recreation.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Standing at a height of 55 feet and stretching a length of 382 feet, the dam holds a maximum storage capacity of 2,660 acre-feet. The dam, situated on Vaughn Creek, serves as a vital water supply source for the region while also offering recreational opportunities for visitors.
Despite its historical significance and essential role in water management, Lake Lanier Dam faces challenges in terms of its condition assessment and hazard potential. The dam has been rated as having a poor condition, with a high hazard potential, highlighting the need for regular inspections and maintenance. The last inspection conducted in June 2019 revealed these concerns, emphasizing the importance of ensuring the safety and integrity of the dam for both water resource management and public safety.
As climate change continues to impact water resources and infrastructure, Lake Lanier Dam serves as a crucial component in the region's water supply and recreation systems. With its unique design, historical significance, and importance for water management, the dam stands as a testament to the intersection of human engineering and environmental stewardship in the face of changing climate conditions. Efforts to maintain and improve the dam's condition will be essential in ensuring its continued function and safety for the community it serves.
Year Completed |
1923 |
Dam Length |
382 |
Dam Height |
55 |
River Or Stream |
VAUGHN CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
94 |
Nid Storage |
2660 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock, Soil |
Nid Height |
55 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.
Hazard Potential Classification
HighDams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.
Lake Lanier Dam