Saluda, also known as Lake Murray, is a public utility hydroelectric dam located in Lexington, South Carolina.
Wind
Humidity
Constructed in 1930 by Murray & Flood of New York City, this Earth-type dam stands at 213 feet in height and spans 7800 feet in length. With a normal storage capacity of 2.1 million acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 197,000 cubic feet per second, Saluda plays a crucial role in providing renewable energy and water supply to the region.
Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Saluda's spillway is of the controlled type with a width of 299 feet, ensuring efficient water flow management. The dam's associated structures include Tainter radial gates and a hazard potential rating of High, emphasizing the need for thorough risk assessment and management. Despite its age, Saluda remains a key component of the local water resource infrastructure and continues to operate with a risk assessment rank of Very High (1).
Saluda's strategic location on the Saluda River, in close proximity to Irmo, makes it a significant landmark in the Savannah District. With its rich history, impressive structural design, and essential role in water resource management, Saluda stands as a testament to the ingenuity and foresight of its designers and remains a vital asset for both energy generation and climate resilience in the region.
Year Completed |
1930 |
Dam Length |
7800 |
Dam Height |
213 |
River Or Stream |
Saluda |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
48000 |
Hydraulic Height |
205 |
Drainage Area |
2420 |
Nid Storage |
2200000 |
Structural Height |
234 |
Outlet Gates |
Tainter (radial) - 6 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock |
Nid Height |
234 |
Saluda River Below Lk Murray Dam Nr Columbia
|
622cfs |
Saluda River Near Columbia
|
789cfs |
Smith Branch At North Main St At Columbia
|
9cfs |
Congaree River At Columbia
|
3460cfs |
Broad River At Alston
|
2550cfs |
Gills Creek At Columbia
|
58cfs |