Silver Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 7, 2025

Silver Lake Dam in Lexington, South Carolina, stands as a crucial structure for fish and wildlife conservation, serving as a Fish and Wildlife Pond since its completion in 1938.


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Summary

This private-owned dam, with a height of 11 feet and a length of 480 feet, holds a storage capacity of 105 acre-feet of water, primarily used for recreational purposes. The dam is regulated by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control, ensuring regular inspections and enforcement to maintain its integrity.

Located on Toms Branch and managed by private owners, Silver Lake Dam is a significant feature in the Savannah District, with a high hazard potential due to its condition assessment being labeled as "Not Rated." Despite this, the dam plays a vital role in the local ecosystem and serves as a recreational spot for enthusiasts. With a normal storage capacity of 80 acre-feet and a surface area of 20 acres, the dam provides valuable habitat for various species while offering opportunities for outdoor activities.

Although the dam's risk assessment and emergency action plan status are currently undisclosed, the frequent inspections and regulatory oversight by the state ensure the safety and functionality of Silver Lake Dam. As a cornerstone for wildlife preservation and recreational enjoyment in the region, this Earth-type dam continues to be a significant asset that requires ongoing monitoring and maintenance to uphold its essential role in water resource management and climate resilience efforts.

Year Completed

1938

Dam Length

480

Dam Height

11

River Or Stream

TOMS BRANCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

20

Nid Storage

105

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

11
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No 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

High
Dams 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.