Cedar Pines Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 14, 2025
Cedar Pines Lake Dam, located in Lancaster, South Carolina, was completed in 1955 with a primary purpose of recreation.
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Summary
This privately-owned Earth dam stands at a height of 9 feet and has a length of 465 feet, creating a reservoir with a storage capacity of 205 acre-feet. The dam is situated on TR-Cane Creek and is regulated by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC).
Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, Cedar Pines Lake Dam's condition assessment in 2017 was rated as poor. The dam is inspected every 5 years, with the last inspection conducted in October 2017. With its limited spillway capacity and poor condition, the dam poses potential risks to downstream areas in case of failure. The dam's emergency action plan (EAP) and risk management measures appear to be outdated, emphasizing the importance of proactive maintenance and monitoring efforts to ensure the safety and integrity of the structure.
As a beloved recreational spot in the region, Cedar Pines Lake Dam serves as both a water resource and a climate feature for enthusiasts. Its picturesque location and historical significance make it a focal point for outdoor activities and natural beauty appreciation. However, ongoing efforts are essential to address the dam's maintenance issues and enhance its resilience to changing climatic conditions, ensuring the safety of the surrounding communities and preserving the recreational opportunities it offers for future generations.
Year Completed |
1955 |
Dam Length |
465 |
Dam Height |
9 |
River Or Stream |
TR-CANE CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
18 |
Nid Storage |
205 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
9 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Cedar Pines Lake Dam