Herbert Risinger Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Herbert Risinger Dam, located in Lexington, South Carolina, is a privately owned structure built in 1900 primarily for recreation purposes.


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Summary

The dam stands at a height of 19 feet and spans 624 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 151 acre-feet. Situated on the Long Branch river, the dam is regulated by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) and undergoes regular inspections to ensure public safety.

Despite its fair condition assessment and high hazard potential, Herbert Risinger Dam continues to be a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts seeking recreational activities such as fishing, boating, and picnicking. The dam's proximity to the Savannah District and its location within the jurisdiction of South Carolina make it a key feature in the state's water resource management efforts. With a surface area of 21 acres and a normal storage capacity of 118 acre-feet, the dam serves as a vital water source for the surrounding area.

Managed by private owners, Herbert Risinger Dam plays a crucial role in providing not only recreational opportunities but also in water storage and flood control. With its historical significance dating back over a century, the dam stands as a testament to the ingenuity of early engineers and continues to be a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the intersection of infrastructure and natural ecosystems.

Year Completed

1900

Dam Length

624

Dam Height

19

River Or Stream

LONG BRANCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

21

Nid Storage

151

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

19
       
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.