John J Lewis Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Kent Ingram Dam Garvins Pond Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
John J Lewis Dam, located in Aiken, South Carolina, was completed in 1915 and stands as a testament to early engineering ingenuity.
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Summary
The dam, primarily designed for recreation, holds a maximum storage capacity of 75 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 53 acre-feet. Situated on the Clarks Mill Creek, the earth dam with a height of 14 feet and a length of 275 feet provides essential water resources for the region while offering opportunities for outdoor activities.
Despite its historical significance, the dam's condition assessment is marked as poor, with a low hazard potential. The last inspection in December 2017 highlighted the need for maintenance and improvements to ensure the structure's long-term stability. The South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control oversees the dam's regulatory aspects, including permitting, inspection, and enforcement, to safeguard the surrounding area from potential risks.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts explore the role of dams in sustainable water management, John J Lewis Dam serves as a case study in balancing recreation and safety. With a rich history dating back over a century, the dam continues to provide valuable insights into the challenges of maintaining aging infrastructure while meeting modern regulatory standards. As discussions on risk assessment and management evolve, the dam's condition assessment and hazard potential offer valuable lessons for future decision-making in water resource management.
Year Completed |
1915 |
Dam Length |
275 |
Dam Height |
14 |
River Or Stream |
CLARKS MILL CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
5 |
Nid Storage |
75 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
14 |
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.
John J Lewis Dam