Cane Creek Wcd Dam 16 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 14, 2025
Cane Creek WCD Dam 16, located in Lancaster, South Carolina, is a critical flood risk reduction structure designed by the USDA NRCS and completed in 1972.
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Summary
This earth dam, standing at a height of 45 feet and a length of 1485 feet, serves a primary purpose of flood risk reduction along the SOUTH PRONG CANE CREEK. With a maximum storage capacity of 959 acre-feet and a normal storage of 179 acre-feet, the dam plays a vital role in managing water levels and protecting the surrounding areas from potential flooding events.
Managed by local government authorities and regulated by the SC DHEC, Cane Creek WCD Dam 16 is subject to regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity and safety. The dam has been assessed to be in fair condition with a high hazard potential, prompting a moderate risk assessment rating. While the dam currently operates with uncontrolled spillways and outlet gates, it continues to stand as a crucial infrastructure for flood control and water resource management in the region.
Despite its age, Cane Creek WCD Dam 16 remains a key asset for flood risk reduction in the area. With its stone core foundation and strategic location along the Cane Creek, the dam serves as a testament to effective water resource management and the importance of maintaining critical infrastructure to safeguard against potential disasters. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is imperative to monitor and support the continued maintenance and operation of structures like Cane Creek WCD Dam 16 to ensure the resilience of communities and ecosystems in the face of changing environmental conditions.
Year Completed |
1972 |
Dam Length |
1485 |
Dam Height |
45 |
River Or Stream |
SOUTH PRONG CANE CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
31 |
Nid Storage |
959 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock, Soil |
Nid Height |
45 |
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.
Cane Creek Wcd Dam 16