Larry Sossaman Dam 1 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Larry Sossaman Dam 1, located in Cherokee, South Carolina, is a privately owned earth dam with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

Completed in 1950, this dam stands at a height of 25 feet and has a length of 400 feet, providing a storage capacity of 147 acre-feet. Situated on the TR-ABINGDON CREEK, this dam is regulated by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (SC DHEC), ensuring that it meets state inspection and enforcement standards.

Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, the condition assessment of Larry Sossaman Dam 1 was deemed unsatisfactory during its last inspection in September 2017. The risk assessment for this dam is moderate, indicating a potential for adverse impacts in the event of a failure. With an annual inspection frequency of 5 years, it is crucial for the owners and regulators to address the identified issues and implement necessary risk management measures to ensure the safety and integrity of this structure for both recreational use and environmental protection.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is important to monitor and advocate for the maintenance and improvement of dams like Larry Sossaman Dam 1 to mitigate risks and preserve water resources. Collaboration between the private owners, state regulators, and community stakeholders is essential to ensure the safety of the dam and the surrounding areas, as well as to address any potential environmental concerns. By staying informed and engaged, we can contribute to the sustainable management of water resources and the resilience of our infrastructure in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1950

Dam Length

400

Dam Height

25

River Or Stream

TR-ABINGDON CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

13

Nid Storage

147

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

25
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.