Edisto Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Ray Lucas Dam Starnes/Brown Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Located in Aiken, South Carolina, Edisto Lake Dam is a privately owned structure built in 1974 primarily for irrigation purposes.
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Summary
This earth dam sits on Giddy Swamp Creek and stands at a height of 35 feet with a length of 325 feet, providing a storage capacity of 2500 acre-feet. Despite its importance for irrigation and recreation, the dam is classified as having a high hazard potential and is currently in poor condition based on a recent assessment in May 2020.
The dam is regulated by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (SC DHEC), which oversees its permitting, inspection, and enforcement processes. It is designed to withstand the hydraulic forces of its surroundings, with a core made of stone and a foundation based on soil. The dam's location along Giddy Swamp Creek adds to its significance in managing water resources in the area, making it a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in its impact on the local ecosystem and surrounding communities.
As a key structure in the Savannah District managed by the US Army Corps of Engineers, Edisto Lake Dam plays a crucial role in water management and conservation efforts in the region. With its sizable storage capacity and strategic positioning on a vital waterway, the dam serves as a critical infrastructure for maintaining water supply for irrigation purposes and supporting recreational activities. However, its current poor condition and high hazard potential highlight the importance of ongoing maintenance and monitoring to ensure the safety and effectiveness of this essential water resource facility.
Year Completed |
1974 |
Dam Length |
325 |
Dam Height |
35 |
River Or Stream |
GIDDY SWAMP CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
192 |
Nid Storage |
2500 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
35 |
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.
Edisto Lake Dam