Sunrise Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 16, 2025
Sunrise Lake Dam, located in Lancaster, South Carolina, stands as a testament to human ingenuity and engineering prowess.
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Summary
Built in 1950, this private dam serves primarily for recreational purposes, providing a serene oasis for water resource and climate enthusiasts alike. Standing at 27 feet in height and spanning 625 feet in length, the dam holds a storage capacity of 336 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 279 acre-feet.
Despite its low hazard potential, Sunrise Lake Dam's condition assessment reveals a concerning status of poor, as of the last inspection in October 2017. This raises questions about the dam's long-term viability and safety, especially in the face of potential climate-related challenges. The dam's proximity to the Little Lynches Creek further underscores the need for continued monitoring and maintenance to ensure the safety of surrounding communities.
As climate change continues to impact water resources and infrastructure across the globe, the fate of dams like Sunrise Lake Dam hangs in the balance. With a moderate risk rating and a history of poor condition assessment, stakeholders must prioritize proactive measures to mitigate potential risks and ensure the long-term resilience of this vital structure. As water enthusiasts and climate advocates, it is imperative to stay informed and engaged in the ongoing management and maintenance of dams like Sunrise Lake Dam to safeguard our communities and natural environments for generations to come.
Year Completed |
1950 |
Dam Length |
625 |
Dam Height |
27 |
River Or Stream |
TR-LITTLE LYNCHES CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
30 |
Nid Storage |
336 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
27 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Fishing Creek Below Fort Lawn
|
30cfs |
Rocky Creek At Great Falls
|
12cfs |
Waxhaw Creek At Sr1103 Near Jackson
|
1cfs |
Catawba River Below Catawba
|
1600cfs |
Wateree River Nr. Camden
|
1660cfs |
Black Creek Near Mcbee
|
75cfs |
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.
Sunrise Lake Dam