George Ott Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Located in Aiken, South Carolina, the George Ott Dam stands proudly as a private structure on McTier Creek.
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Summary
Completed in 1953, this earthen dam serves primarily for recreation, offering a storage capacity of 60 acre-feet and a surface area of 9 acres. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam is assessed to be in poor condition as of its last inspection in August 2017.
Owned and regulated by a private entity, the George Ott Dam is under the jurisdiction of the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC). With a controlled spillway and a height of 16 feet, the dam provides essential recreational opportunities to the local community. Although the risk assessment rates it as very high, the dam poses no immediate danger and continues to be a vital resource for water enthusiasts and climate advocates alike.
As a key feature in the Savannah District's water infrastructure, the George Ott Dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region. Despite its aging condition, the dam remains a valuable asset for the community, offering a serene environment for outdoor activities and serving as a testament to the importance of sustainable water management practices.
Year Completed |
1953 |
Dam Length |
350 |
Dam Height |
16 |
River Or Stream |
MCTIER CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
9 |
Nid Storage |
60 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
16 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
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.
George Ott Dam