Mission Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 7, 2025
Mission Lake Dam in Lexington, South Carolina, stands as a testament to early 20th-century engineering, completed in 1900 with a primary purpose of recreation.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
This private earth dam, with a height of 15 feet and a length of 300 feet, impounds the waters of TR-Savany Hunt Creek, creating a surface area of 12 acres and a storage capacity of 101 acre-feet. Despite its age, the dam is deemed to have a low hazard potential and fair condition, with inspections conducted every five years to ensure its safety.
Owned and regulated by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC), Mission Lake Dam serves as a vital component of the local water resource infrastructure. Its uncontrolled spillway and buttress core provide effective flood control measures, while also offering recreational opportunities for the surrounding community. With a risk assessment rating of moderate, efforts are in place to manage any potential risks and ensure the continued safety and functionality of the dam for both water resource and climate enthusiasts alike.
As climate change continues to impact water resources worldwide, the significance of maintaining and monitoring dams such as Mission Lake Dam becomes increasingly crucial. With the Savannah District of the US Army Corps of Engineers overseeing its operations, this historic structure not only contributes to water management efforts but also serves as a reminder of the intersection between human ingenuity and environmental stewardship in the face of evolving climate challenges.
Year Completed |
1900 |
Dam Length |
300 |
Dam Height |
15 |
River Or Stream |
TR-SAVANY HUNT CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
12 |
Nid Storage |
101 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
15 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Congaree River At Columbia
|
4580cfs |
Gills Creek At Columbia
|
76cfs |
Saluda River Near Columbia
|
770cfs |
Smith Branch At North Main St At Columbia
|
9cfs |
Saluda River Below Lk Murray Dam Nr Columbia
|
596cfs |
Wateree R. Bl Eastover
|
2400cfs |
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.
Mission Lake Dam
West Columbia Soccer Complex
Granby Park
Guignard Park
RA-Rock Park
Sims Park