Saluda Spillway Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 8, 2025

Saluda Spillway in South Carolina is a vital hydroelectric structure located on the Saluda River in Lexington County.


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Summary

Built in 1930 and owned by a public utility, this gravity-type dam stands at a height of 32 feet and has a controlled spillway width of 299 feet. With a storage capacity of 2.2 million acre-feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 197,000 cubic feet per second, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region.

The dam's primary purpose is hydroelectric power generation, making it a key contributor to the region's energy supply. Despite its age, Saluda Spillway remains in good condition with a high hazard potential and a very high risk assessment rating. The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission oversees its operations, inspections, and regulatory compliance, ensuring the safety and integrity of the structure.

With a history of serving the community for over 90 years, Saluda Spillway continues to be a significant asset in the region's water resource management and energy production efforts. Its strategic location and design make it a critical component of the local infrastructure, highlighting the importance of sustainable and efficient water resource utilization in the face of changing climate patterns and increasing demand for renewable energy sources.

Year Completed

1930

Dam Length

244

Dam Height

32

River Or Stream

Saluda

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

48000

Hydraulic Height

32

Nid Storage

2200000

Structural Height

32

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

32
       
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.