Lake Frances Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lake Frances Dam, located in York, South Carolina, serves as a vital irrigation source and recreational spot.


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Summary

Built in 1949, this private-owned earth dam stands at a height of 27 feet and spans 560 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 78 acre-feet. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment is marked as poor, signaling a need for further inspection and potential maintenance.

The dam overlooks the picturesque Steele Creek, offering visitors a serene backdrop for various recreational activities. While the dam itself has a moderate risk assessment rating, its uncontrolled spillway and poor condition assessment raise concerns for potential safety issues. With state regulatory agencies overseeing its permitting, inspection, and enforcement, Lake Frances Dam remains a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in sustainable infrastructure management and risk mitigation measures.

As climate change continues to impact water resources, ensuring the safety and integrity of structures like Lake Frances Dam becomes crucial. With its historical significance and importance as an irrigation source, efforts to improve its condition and reduce risk are essential for both the local community and the environment. By prioritizing maintenance and implementing risk management measures, Lake Frances Dam can continue to serve its dual purpose of providing water for agriculture while offering a recreational oasis for visitors to enjoy.

Year Completed

1949

Dam Length

560

Dam Height

27

River Or Stream

TR-STEELE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

9

Nid Storage

78

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

27
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No 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

High
Dams 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.