Saluda Backup Berm Reservoir Report
Nearby: Saluda Saluda Spillway
Last Updated: February 24, 2026
Saluda Backup Berm is a vital structure located in Irmo, South Carolina, designed for hydroelectric purposes.
Summary
Completed in 2005, this backup berm plays a crucial role in managing water resources along the Saluda River. With a height of 213 feet and a storage capacity of 2.2 million acre-feet, it ensures reliable water supply and flood control in the region.
Owned by a public utility, Saluda Backup Berm falls under the oversight of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) for regulatory and inspection purposes. Its hazard potential is deemed high, emphasizing the importance of regular monitoring and maintenance. The structure is associated with two other structures and serves as a key component in the overall water management system of the area.
Located within the Savannah District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, Saluda Backup Berm is a critical infrastructure that safeguards the local community from potential risks and ensures efficient utilization of water resources. Its strategic location and significant storage capacity make it a cornerstone of water resource management in the region, highlighting the intersection of climate resilience and hydroelectric power generation.
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15-Day Weather Outlook
Year Completed |
2005 |
Dam Length |
8000 |
Dam Height |
213 |
River Or Stream |
Saluda |
Surface Area |
48000 |
Drainage Area |
2420 |
Nid Storage |
2200000 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
213 |
Seasonal Comparison
5-Day Hourly Forecast Detail
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Saluda Backup Berm
Highway 6 6, Columbia