Cheryl Templeton Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Cheryl Templeton Dam, located in Lexington, South Carolina, is a privately-owned structure that serves primarily for recreation purposes.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Completed in 1959, this earth dam stands at a height of 19 feet and stretches for 460 feet along Horsepen Creek. With a storage capacity of 125 acre-feet and a surface area of 12 acres, the dam provides a serene setting for outdoor activities and water-based recreation.

Despite its low hazard potential and fair condition assessment, Cheryl Templeton Dam is regulated by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC). The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and has an inspection frequency of 5 years. In the event of an emergency, the dam's risk assessment is considered moderate, with measures in place to manage any potential risks. The structure's safety and stability are critical to maintaining the surrounding ecosystem and ensuring the safety of nearby residents.

Managed by private owners, Cheryl Templeton Dam remains a picturesque landmark in the region, offering opportunities for anglers, boaters, and nature enthusiasts to enjoy the beauty of Horsepen Creek. With its historical significance and recreational value, this dam serves as a vital component of the local water resource infrastructure while also contributing to the resilience of the surrounding ecosystem in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1959

Dam Length

460

Dam Height

19

River Or Stream

HORSEPEN CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

12

Nid Storage

125

Hazard Potential

Low

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.