Clark Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 14, 2025

Clark Lake Dam, located in Richland, South Carolina, stands as a vital irrigation structure along the Sorghum Branch.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Constructed in 1965, this earth dam reaches a height of 32 feet and spans 1100 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 602 acre-feet. The dam primarily serves the purpose of irrigation, with additional benefits for recreation.

Managed by a private entity, Clark Lake Dam is regulated by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control. Despite being classified as having a high hazard potential, the dam is currently in fair condition as per the latest assessment conducted in January 2021. With a history of regular inspections and enforcement, the dam ensures the safety of its surrounding community while providing essential water resources for agricultural needs. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Clark Lake Dam serves as a noteworthy example of the intersection between infrastructure management and environmental stewardship in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1965

Dam Length

1100

Dam Height

32

River Or Stream

SORGHUM BRANCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

42

Nid Storage

602

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

32
       
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.