North Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Rocky Ford Lake Dam Spring Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 14, 2025
North Lake Dam, located in Richland, South Carolina, is a privately owned Earth dam completed in 1955 for recreational purposes.
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Summary
The dam stands at a height of 13 feet and stretches 700 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 297 acre-feet. Situated along Gills Creek, the dam poses a high hazard potential but has been assessed to be in fair condition as of the last inspection in October 2020.
Managed by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control, the dam is subject to state regulations, inspections, and enforcement to ensure public safety. Despite its age, North Lake Dam continues to serve its recreational purpose and provides a surface area of 25 acres for outdoor activities. With a designated emergency action plan and a biennial inspection frequency, the dam is equipped to handle any potential risks and maintain its integrity for years to come.
Enthusiasts of water resources and climate in the region can appreciate the historical significance and environmental impact of North Lake Dam. As part of the Savannah District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, the dam contributes to the local ecosystem while offering a serene recreational spot for visitors to enjoy. Its presence along Gills Creek adds to the natural beauty of the area and underscores the importance of sustainable dam management for both human recreation and ecological balance.
Year Completed |
1955 |
Dam Length |
700 |
Dam Height |
13 |
River Or Stream |
GILLS CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
25 |
Nid Storage |
297 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
13 |
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.
North Lake Dam