Buzzards Roost Embankment Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Buzzards Roost Embankment, located in Greenwood, South Carolina, is a gravity dam constructed in 1940 for hydroelectric power generation and recreation purposes.
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Summary
With a height of 82 feet and a structural height of 82 feet, this dam stands as a vital structure on the Saluda River, providing a storage capacity of 256,000 acre-feet and covering a surface area of 11,400 acres. The dam boasts a controlled spillway with a width of 173 feet and has a maximum discharge capacity of 40,000 cubic feet per second.
Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Buzzards Roost Embankment is classified as a high hazard potential dam with a very high risk assessment rating. The dam is associated with two structures and has undergone regular inspections, with the last inspection conducted in September 2020. Despite the lack of available condition assessment data, the emergency action plan for the dam was last revised in January 2021, emphasizing the importance of preparedness and risk management measures for this critical infrastructure.
As an integral component of the water resource and climate landscape in the region, Buzzards Roost Embankment serves as a key player in ensuring water supply, flood control, and recreational opportunities for the surrounding communities. With its historical significance and functional importance, the dam stands as a testament to human ingenuity in harnessing the power of nature for sustainable development and environmental stewardship.
Year Completed |
1940 |
Dam Length |
2400 |
Dam Height |
82 |
River Or Stream |
Saluda River |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
11400 |
Hydraulic Height |
59 |
Drainage Area |
1170 |
Nid Storage |
256000 |
Structural Height |
82 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock, Soil |
Nid Height |
82 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Lake Greenwood Tailrace Nr Chappells
|
1090cfs |
Saluda River At Chappells
|
1220cfs |
Little River Nr Silverstreet
|
94cfs |
Bush River Nr Prosperity
|
58cfs |
Saluda River Near Ware Shoals
|
503cfs |
South Rabon Creek Near Gray Court
|
17cfs |
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.
Buzzards Roost Embankment