Great Falls-Dearborn Saddle Dike Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 15, 2025
The Great Falls-Dearborn Saddle Dike, also known as the Canal Embankment, is a public utility structure located in South Carolina along the Catawba River.
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Summary
Built in 1907 for hydroelectric purposes, this earth dam stands at a height of 52 feet and spans 450 feet in length. With a storage capacity of 2043 acre-feet and a drainage area of 4140 acres, this dam plays a crucial role in water resource management and energy generation in the region.
Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, the Great Falls-Dearborn Saddle Dike has a low hazard potential but is classified as having a high risk level (2). Despite its historical significance and functional importance, the condition assessment of this dam is currently listed as "Not Available." With no state jurisdiction or regulatory agency overseeing its operations, it is essential for the federal authorities to prioritize inspections and risk management measures to ensure the safety and integrity of this vital infrastructure.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is imperative to monitor and advocate for the maintenance and upkeep of structures like the Great Falls-Dearborn Saddle Dike to safeguard against potential risks and ensure the sustainable utilization of water resources for future generations. By staying informed and engaged in the management of such critical infrastructure, we can contribute to the resilience and efficiency of our water systems in the face of evolving environmental challenges.
Year Completed |
1907 |
Dam Length |
450 |
Dam Height |
52 |
River Or Stream |
Catawba |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
450 |
Drainage Area |
4140 |
Nid Storage |
2043 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
52 |
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 Saddle Dike