Catawba Standby Nuclear Service Water Reservoir Report
Nearby: Thomas Pond Dam Ford Pond Dam
Last Updated: January 9, 2026
Located in York, South Carolina, the Catawba Standby Nuclear Service Water facility serves as Category I Emergency Cooling Water for public utility purposes.
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Summary
The dam, completed in 1982, stands at a height of 75 feet and spans a length of 1710 feet along the Catawba River. With a storage capacity of 1200 acre-feet, the dam's primary purpose is to provide standby nuclear service water to ensure the safety and efficiency of nuclear operations in the region.
Operated by the Nuclear Regulatory Commission, the Catawba Standby Nuclear Service Water facility has a low hazard potential and is assessed to be in satisfactory condition as of April 2017. In the event of an emergency, the facility is equipped to handle a maximum discharge of 380 cubic feet per second. Despite its moderate risk assessment, the dam is regularly inspected every two years to ensure its continued safe operation. With a surface area of 46 acres and a drainage area of 0.64 square miles, the Catawba Standby Nuclear Service Water facility plays a crucial role in safeguarding water resources and maintaining climate resilience in the region.
As a key component of the region's emergency preparedness infrastructure, the Catawba Standby Nuclear Service Water facility serves as a vital resource for managing potential nuclear emergencies. With its uncontrolled spillway and stone core, the dam is designed to withstand various environmental challenges while providing essential cooling water support in critical situations. As climate change continues to pose threats to water resources, the facility's strategic location and operational efficiency are crucial for ensuring the safety and security of the surrounding community.
Year Completed |
1982 |
Dam Length |
1710 |
Dam Height |
75 |
River Or Stream |
CATAWBA |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
46 |
Drainage Area |
0.64 |
Nid Storage |
1200 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
75 |
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Ebenezer County Park
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McDowell Nature Preserve
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Sign Language
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Catawba Standby Nuclear Service Water
Boatshore Road York County