Hospitals Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 14, 2025

Hospitals Lake Dam, also known as Mental Health Dam, is a private-owned structure located in Richland, South Carolina.


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Summary

Built in 1965, this earth-type dam stands at a height of 11 feet and stretches 518 feet in length. Its primary purpose is for recreation, offering a serene retreat for water resource and climate enthusiasts to enjoy.

Despite its low hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment in 2017 revealed poor maintenance. With a very high risk rating, there is a pressing need for risk management measures to be implemented to ensure the safety and longevity of Hospitals Lake Dam. While it may currently face challenges, the potential for this dam to provide valuable recreational opportunities for the community underscores the importance of investing in its upkeep and preservation.

Located on Crane Creek and under the jurisdiction of the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control, Hospitals Lake Dam serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between water resource management and public safety. By addressing its maintenance needs and implementing risk management strategies, this dam can continue to offer a peaceful oasis for residents and visitors alike to enjoy for years to come.

Year Completed

1965

Dam Length

518

Dam Height

11

River Or Stream

CRANE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

28

Nid Storage

134

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

11
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.