Rocky Ford Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Spring Lake Dam North Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 14, 2025
Rocky Ford Lake Dam, located in Richland, South Carolina, is a private earth dam that was completed in the year 1900.
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Summary
With a height of 17 feet and a length of 260 feet, this dam serves primarily for recreational purposes, providing a storage capacity of 230 acre-feet and a surface area of 21 acres. Situated on Gills Creek, the dam is under state regulation and inspection by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control.
Despite being classified with a high hazard potential, the condition assessment of Rocky Ford Lake Dam is reported as fair as of October 2020. The dam has a designated emergency action plan and inspection frequency of twice a year to ensure its safety and compliance with regulatory standards. It is crucial for water resource and climate enthusiasts to keep track of the maintenance and risk management measures associated with this dam to prevent any potential hazards and safeguard the surrounding community and environment.
Rocky Ford Lake Dam stands as a vital structure for recreation and water management in the area, with a historical significance dating back over a century. Its presence on Gills Creek contributes to the local ecosystem and provides a tranquil setting for outdoor activities. As enthusiasts in water resources and climate, understanding the dynamics and maintenance of such dams is crucial for ensuring the sustainable use of water resources and the resilience of infrastructure in the face of changing climate conditions.
Year Completed |
1900 |
Dam Length |
260 |
Dam Height |
17 |
River Or Stream |
GILLS CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
21 |
Nid Storage |
230 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
17 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Gills Creek At Columbia
|
37cfs |
Smith Branch At North Main St At Columbia
|
3cfs |
Congaree River At Columbia
|
3140cfs |
Saluda River Near Columbia
|
907cfs |
Saluda River Below Lk Murray Dam Nr Columbia
|
775cfs |
Wateree River Nr. Camden
|
1570cfs |
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.
Rocky Ford Lake Dam