Duncan Creek Wcd Dam 7 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Duncan Creek WCD Dam 7, also known as Whitten Center, is a vital flood risk reduction structure located in Laurens, South Carolina.


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Summary

Built in 1963 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 25 feet and has a length of 315 feet, providing crucial protection to the surrounding area. With a storage capacity of 773 acre-feet and a normal storage volume of 106 acre-feet, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water flow in the Sand Creek watershed.

Managed by the local government and regulated by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC), Duncan Creek WCD Dam 7 has a hazard potential rating of high and a current condition assessment of fair. The dam's emergency action plan (EAP) was last revised in June 2019, ensuring that proper guidelines are in place for any potential risks. Despite its age and moderate risk assessment, the dam continues to be inspected regularly to maintain its structural integrity and safeguard the community from potential flooding events.

With its significant impact on flood risk reduction in the area, Duncan Creek WCD Dam 7 stands as a testament to effective water resource management and climate resilience efforts. As a critical infrastructure project designed to protect against natural disasters, this dam serves as a vital component of the region's water management system, demonstrating the importance of proactive measures in safeguarding communities from the impacts of extreme weather events.

Year Completed

1963

Dam Length

315

Dam Height

25

River Or Stream

SAND CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

25

Nid Storage

773

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

25
       
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.