Swints Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Swints Lake Dam, located in Aiken, South Carolina, was completed in 1951 and serves as a crucial water resource for the area, with a storage capacity of 408 acre-feet.


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Summary

The dam stands at a height of 37 feet and spans 300 feet in length, primarily designed for recreational purposes. However, recent assessments indicate a high hazard potential and poor condition, highlighting the need for maintenance and potential risk management measures.

The dam is regulated by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC), with state inspections and enforcement in place to ensure public safety. Despite its earth core and buttress design, the dam's spillway is currently listed as uncontrolled, raising concerns about its ability to manage excess water flow during heavy rainfall events. With a risk assessment rating of moderate (3), stakeholders are urged to implement proactive measures to address the dam's deteriorating condition and mitigate potential hazards to surrounding communities.

As a private-owned structure, Swints Lake Dam's operation and maintenance fall on the responsibility of its owners, emphasizing the importance of regular inspections and adherence to safety guidelines. Additionally, the involvement of federal agencies such as the US Army Corps of Engineers is non-existent, further underscoring the local authority's role in managing and safeguarding this vital water resource. Collaborative efforts between stakeholders, regulators, and the community are essential to ensure the long-term viability and safety of Swints Lake Dam for future generations.

Year Completed

1951

Dam Length

300

Dam Height

37

River Or Stream

TR-HIGHTOWER CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

10

Nid Storage

408

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

37
       
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.