Larry Murray Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Larry Murray Dam, located in Aiken, South Carolina, stands as a testament to the importance of water resource management and climate resilience.
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Summary
Built in 1960 for recreational purposes, this earth dam on Chalk Hill Creek spans 350 feet in length and reaches a height of 22 feet, providing storage of up to 349 acre-feet of water. Despite its low hazard potential and fair condition assessment, the dam is under the jurisdiction of the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control for regulation, inspection, and enforcement.
The dam's controlled spillway type and very high risk assessment underscore the need for proactive risk management measures to safeguard the surrounding community from potential inundation events. With a stable foundation and buttress core type, Larry Murray Dam has withstood the test of time, but regular inspections and adherence to safety guidelines are crucial for its continued operation. In the event of an emergency, the dam's emergency action plan and communication protocols must be up to date to ensure a swift and coordinated response.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts, we recognize Larry Murray Dam as a vital component of the region's infrastructure, contributing to both water storage and recreational opportunities. By staying informed and engaged in dam safety practices, we can help mitigate risks and ensure the long-term sustainability of this essential water management structure.
Year Completed |
1960 |
Dam Length |
350 |
Dam Height |
22 |
River Or Stream |
CHALK HILL CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
33 |
Nid Storage |
349 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
22 |
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.
Larry Murray Dam