Louise Sprott Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Louise Sprott Dam, located in Lexington, South Carolina, was completed in 1963 and serves as a key recreational spot for water resource and climate enthusiasts.
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Summary
The dam, with a height of 19 feet and a length of 830 feet, provides a storage capacity of 91 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 9 acres. Situated on the Double Branch river, this earth dam with a buttress core type offers a serene environment for outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, and picnicking.
Despite its recreational appeal, Louise Sprott Dam has been assessed to be in poor condition, with its last inspection in April 2017. The dam has an undetermined hazard potential, pointing to the need for regular maintenance and monitoring to ensure public safety and the longevity of the structure. The dam's emergency action plan status, risk assessment, and risk management measures are currently unspecified, indicating a potential area for improvement in terms of preparedness and response in case of emergencies.
Managed by a private entity, Louise Sprott Dam is a valuable asset for the community, offering a picturesque setting for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy various water-based activities. As efforts continue to maintain and enhance the dam's condition, it remains a popular destination for locals and visitors alike, showcasing the intersection of water resource management, recreation, and environmental stewardship in the heart of South Carolina.
Year Completed |
1963 |
Dam Length |
830 |
Dam Height |
19 |
River Or Stream |
DOUBLE BRANCH |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
9 |
Nid Storage |
91 |
Hazard Potential |
Undetermined |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
19 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Saluda River Near Columbia
|
907cfs |
Congaree River At Columbia
|
3010cfs |
Smith Branch At North Main St At Columbia
|
3cfs |
Gills Creek At Columbia
|
37cfs |
Saluda River Below Lk Murray Dam Nr Columbia
|
790cfs |
Broad River At Alston
|
1880cfs |
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.
Louise Sprott Dam