North Saluda Reservoir Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

The North Saluda Reservoir Dam in Greenville, South Carolina, is a vital infrastructure for water supply in the region.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Completed in 1956, this earth dam stands at a height of 175 feet and spans 1,560 feet in length, holding a maximum storage capacity of 80,648 acre-feet. The dam is located on the North Saluda River and is owned privately, with state regulation and inspection ensuring its safe operation.

With a surface area of 1,050.1 acres, the North Saluda Reservoir Dam plays a critical role in providing water to the surrounding communities. Despite its high hazard potential, the dam has been assessed as satisfactory and meets regulatory guidelines. Regular inspections and a comprehensive Emergency Action Plan contribute to its safe management and mitigate any potential risks associated with its operation.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate the engineering feat of the North Saluda Reservoir Dam, which not only serves as a water supply source but also showcases the importance of proper maintenance and regulatory oversight in ensuring the safety of such essential infrastructure. The dam stands as a testament to human ingenuity in harnessing and managing water resources for the benefit of communities while adhering to stringent regulatory standards to safeguard the environment and public safety.

Year Completed

1956

Dam Length

1560

Dam Height

175

River Or Stream

NORTH SALUDA RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

1050.1

Nid Storage

80648

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

175
       
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.