Great Falls-Dearborn Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 15, 2025
Great Falls-Dearborn Dam, located in Great Falls, South Carolina, is a gravity dam on the Catawba River primarily used for hydroelectric purposes.
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Summary
Standing at a height of 113 feet, the dam was completed in 1923 and has a storage capacity of 2043 acre-feet. With a structure length of 950 feet, the dam plays a crucial role in harnessing the power of water to generate electricity in the region.
Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, the Great Falls-Dearborn Dam is a significant infrastructure that contributes to the overall energy production in the area. Despite its high hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment is currently not available, highlighting the need for ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure its safety and efficiency. With its historical significance and impact on the local ecosystem, the dam serves as a key landmark in the region for water resource and climate enthusiasts.
As one of the essential structures on the Catawba River, Great Falls-Dearborn Dam serves as a vital component in the water management system of the area. Its role in hydropower generation and its impact on the surrounding environment make it a focal point for stakeholders interested in sustainable water resource management and climate resilience efforts. With its rich history and operational significance, the dam continues to play a crucial role in balancing energy needs with environmental considerations in the region.
Year Completed |
1923 |
Dam Length |
950 |
Dam Height |
113 |
River Or Stream |
Catawba River |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
450 |
Hydraulic Height |
71.4 |
Drainage Area |
4140 |
Nid Storage |
2043 |
Structural Height |
103 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock |
Nid Height |
113 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Rocky Creek At Great Falls
|
11cfs |
Fishing Creek Below Fort Lawn
|
32cfs |
Catawba River Below Catawba
|
1610cfs |
Waxhaw Creek At Sr1103 Near Jackson
|
1cfs |
Wildcat Creek Below Rock Hill
|
2cfs |
Wateree River Nr. Camden
|
1570cfs |
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.
Great Falls-Dearborn Dam