Buzzards Roost Spillway Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Buzzards Roost Spillway, located in Lake Murray, South Carolina, is a key water resource management structure owned by the local government.
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Summary
This gravity dam, completed in 1940, stands at an impressive height of 93 feet and serves multiple purposes including hydroelectric power generation and recreation. With a storage capacity of 256,000 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 68,000 cubic feet per second, the dam plays a crucial role in regulating the flow of the Saluda River and maintaining the surrounding ecosystem.
Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Buzzards Roost Spillway features a controlled spillway with a width of 173 feet and four Tainter radial gates for effective water release during high flow events. The dam's hazard potential is classified as high, and it undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity and public safety. Despite its age, the dam remains a vital component of the region's water infrastructure, offering both recreational opportunities and essential hydroelectric power generation for the local community.
The risk assessment for Buzzards Roost Spillway indicates a very high risk level, highlighting the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance efforts to mitigate potential hazards. While the dam's condition assessment is currently unavailable, emergency action plans are in place to address any unforeseen events. With its significant storage capacity, strategic location, and historical significance, Buzzards Roost Spillway stands as a testament to the intersection of water resource management, climate resilience, and infrastructure development in South Carolina.
Year Completed |
1940 |
Dam Length |
393 |
Dam Height |
93 |
River Or Stream |
Saluda River |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
11400 |
Drainage Area |
1170 |
Nid Storage |
256000 |
Structural Height |
93 |
Outlet Gates |
Tainter (radial) - 4 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock |
Nid Height |
93 |
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 Spillway