Mackie Tyler Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Mackie Tyler Dam, located in Orangeburg, South Carolina, stands as a crucial structure along the TR-North Fork Edisto River.


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Summary

Completed in 1955, this private-owned Earth-type dam serves primarily for recreational purposes, offering a serene escape for water resource and climate enthusiasts. With a structural height of 18 feet and a length of 560 feet, the dam boasts a storage capacity of 80 acre-feet, contributing to the conservation efforts in the region.

Despite its fair condition assessment and high hazard potential, Mackie Tyler Dam undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety and functionality. The South Carolina DHEC oversees the regulatory and enforcement aspects, while the Savannah District of the US Army Corps of Engineers stands as the federal agency responsible for the dam. The dam's emergency action plan is continuously updated to meet guidelines, enhancing preparedness in case of any unforeseen events. With its historical significance and vital role in recreation and conservation, Mackie Tyler Dam remains a notable landmark in the water resource landscape of South Carolina.

As water enthusiasts continue to appreciate the beauty and functionality of Mackie Tyler Dam, its presence serves as a testament to the importance of responsible dam management and maintenance. With a focus on safety and environmental sustainability, this Earth-type dam symbolizes the harmonious coexistence between human activities and natural resources. As climate change impacts water resources worldwide, the conservation efforts at Mackie Tyler Dam highlight the significance of proactive measures in ensuring the resilience and longevity of vital infrastructure in the face of evolving environmental challenges.

Year Completed

1955

Dam Length

560

Dam Height

18

River Or Stream

TR-NORTH FORK EDISTO RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

9

Nid Storage

80

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

18
       
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.