Buzzards Roost Embankment, located in Greenwood, South Carolina, is a gravity dam constructed in 1940 for hydroelectric power generation and recreation purposes. 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.