Sunview Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 11, 2025

Sunview Lake Dam, located in Richland, South Carolina, is a privately owned structure that serves multiple purposes, including recreation and other activities.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Completed in 1949, this earth dam stands at a height of 12 feet and spans a length of 2700 feet, with a storage capacity of 234 acre-feet. Situated on Mill Creek, it is regulated by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (SC DHEC) and undergoes regular inspections and enforcement to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations.

With a surface area of 45 acres and a normal storage capacity of 144 acre-feet, Sunview Lake Dam is a popular destination for water resource and climate enthusiasts in the area. Despite being classified as having a high hazard potential, the dam is currently in fair condition and has a designated emergency action plan (EAP) to address any potential risks. The dam is also under the jurisdiction of the Savannah District of the US Army Corps of Engineers but is privately owned and operated.

Overall, Sunview Lake Dam is a vital component of the local landscape, providing both recreational opportunities and essential water storage capacity. Its strategic location on Mill Creek and its regulated status ensure that it remains a safe and functional structure for the community. As water resource and climate enthusiasts continue to appreciate and monitor the dam, its ongoing maintenance and adherence to regulatory guidelines will be crucial for its long-term sustainability and resilience in the face of changing environmental conditions.

Year Completed

1949

Dam Length

2700

Dam Height

12

River Or Stream

MILL CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

45

Nid Storage

234

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

12
       
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.