Gaston Shoals Reservoir Above Blacksburg Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Gaston Shoals Reservoir is a man-made lake located above Blacksburg, South Carolina.


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Summary

It was created in the early 1900s as a hydroelectric power source and later as a drinking water source. The lake is fed by several small creeks and streams, and its water is used for agricultural irrigation and recreational activities such as fishing and boating. The lake also serves as a source of drinking water for several nearby towns. The area experiences a humid subtropical climate, with hot summers and mild winters. The lake's hydrology is affected by the snowpack in the surrounding mountains, which provides a significant amount of surface flow during the spring and summer months. Overall, Gaston Shoals Reservoir is an important resource for the region, providing vital water and recreation opportunities.

Reservoir Details

Gage Height, Ft 24hr Change 0.24%
Percent of Normal 98%
Minimum 87.88 ft
2017-10-03
Maximum 106.13 ft
2020-02-07
Average 98 ft
Dam_Height 45
Hydraulic_Height 45
Drainage_Area 1300
Year_Completed 1917
Nid_Storage 2500
Structural_Height 45
River_Or_Stream Broad River
Foundations Rock
Surface_Area 251
Hazard_Potential Low
Dam_Length 381
Primary_Dam_Type Concrete
Nid_Height 45
       
Seasonal Comparison
Gage Height, Ft Levels

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.