Chigger Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Chapin Park Dam William Greene Dam
Last Updated: December 18, 2025
Chigger Lake Dam, located in Newberry, South Carolina, was completed in 1999 by the USDA NRCS and serves as a vital resource for fish and wildlife conservation in the area.
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Summary
This privately owned Earth dam stands at a height of 31 feet, with a length of 375 feet and a storage capacity of 48 acre-feet. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam is currently in poor condition, as assessed in October 2017, which raises concerns for its long-term sustainability.
With a surface area of 5 acres and a normal storage capacity of 40.5 acre-feet, Chigger Lake Dam is regulated by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) and undergoes regular inspections to ensure compliance with safety standards. The dam's primary purpose as a fish and wildlife pond highlights its importance in providing habitat for local flora and fauna. However, the dam's poor condition and moderate risk assessment indicate the need for proactive risk management measures to safeguard its continued functionality and protect the surrounding environment.
In the event of an emergency, such as a breach or failure, the dam's emergency action plan (EAP) readiness and adherence to guidelines remain unclear. As climate change continues to impact water resources and infrastructure, the importance of maintaining and improving the resilience of dams like Chigger Lake Dam becomes increasingly critical. Collaborative efforts between private owners, regulatory agencies, and stakeholders are essential to ensure the sustainable management of this vital water resource in the face of evolving climate challenges.
Year Completed |
1999 |
Dam Length |
375 |
Dam Height |
31 |
River Or Stream |
TR-RISTERS CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
5 |
Nid Storage |
48 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
31 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Broad River At Alston
|
1780cfs |
Saluda River Below Lk Murray Dam Nr Columbia
|
785cfs |
Bush River Nr Prosperity
|
30cfs |
Saluda River Near Columbia
|
907cfs |
Smith Branch At North Main St At Columbia
|
4cfs |
Congaree River At Columbia
|
3250cfs |
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.
Chigger Lake Dam
Cove Launch Court Lexington County