Rocky River Gated Spillway Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Rocky River Gated Spillway, located in Abbeville, South Carolina, is a vital structure owned by the local government for hydroelectric and recreational purposes.


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Summary

Constructed in 1940, this buttress dam stands at a height of 50 feet and has a controlled spillway with a width of 72 feet. With a maximum discharge capacity of 34,000 cubic feet per second, this spillway plays a crucial role in managing water flow and storage in the Rocky River.

Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Rocky River Gated Spillway has a significant hazard potential, with a very high risk assessment rating. It boasts a normal storage capacity of 25,650 acre-feet and a drainage area of 196 square miles, providing essential water resources for various uses. The spillway features four Tainter (radial) gates and covers a surface area of 1,425 acres, making it a key infrastructure element in the region.

Despite its importance, the condition assessment of Rocky River Gated Spillway is currently not available, highlighting the need for regular inspections and maintenance to ensure its continued functionality and safety. With its strategic location and critical role in water resource management, this dam serves as a valuable asset for both the local community and the broader ecosystem, emphasizing the importance of sustainable infrastructure development in the face of changing climate patterns.

Year Completed

1940

Dam Length

88

Dam Height

50

River Or Stream

Rocky

Primary Dam Type

Buttress

Surface Area

1425

Hydraulic Height

19

Drainage Area

196

Nid Storage

26300

Structural Height

50

Outlet Gates

Tainter (radial) - 4

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

50
       
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.