Deerlake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Hughes Pond Dam Wildewood Pond Dam 2
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Deerlake Dam, located in Richland, South Carolina, on the Gills Creek, was completed in 1957 and serves primarily for recreational purposes.
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Summary
This private earth dam stands at a height of 12 feet and has a length of 1400 feet, with a storage capacity of 72 acre-feet. Despite being deemed of high hazard potential, it is in fair condition as of the last assessment in January 2021.
Managed by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control, Deerlake Dam undergoes regular inspections every two years to ensure its structural integrity and safety. The dam is situated in a picturesque area with a surface area of 7 acres, providing opportunities for outdoor activities and wildlife habitat. Although there are no associated structures or spillways, the dam remains a key feature in the region's water resource management and climate resilience efforts.
As climate change continues to impact water resources, Deerlake Dam serves as a vital component in the local watershed, helping to mitigate flooding and provide recreational opportunities for the community. With its historical significance and ongoing maintenance, this dam stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water infrastructure in the face of environmental challenges.
Year Completed |
1957 |
Dam Length |
1400 |
Dam Height |
12 |
River Or Stream |
GILLS CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
7 |
Nid Storage |
72 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
12 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Gills Creek At Columbia
|
39cfs |
Smith Branch At North Main St At Columbia
|
3cfs |
Congaree River At Columbia
|
2990cfs |
Saluda River Near Columbia
|
882cfs |
Wateree River Nr. Camden
|
1510cfs |
Saluda River Below Lk Murray Dam Nr Columbia
|
764cfs |
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.
Deerlake Dam