Twin Lakes Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Twin Lakes Dam, located in Orangeburg, South Carolina, is a privately owned earth dam that was completed in 1950 for recreational purposes.


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Summary

Standing at a height of 20 feet and spanning a length of 465 feet, this dam provides a storage capacity of 272 acre-feet with a normal storage level of 213 acre-feet. Despite its primary function for recreation, the dam's hazard potential is classified as high, and its condition assessment is marked as poor.

Managed by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control, Twin Lakes Dam is subject to state regulation, permitting, inspection, and enforcement. The last inspection in October 2019 revealed the dam's deteriorating condition, prompting concerns about its safety and the need for potential risk management measures. With a high hazard rating and poor condition, Twin Lakes Dam serves as a critical reminder of the importance of proactive maintenance and emergency preparedness for water resource and climate enthusiasts in the area.

As a focal point along the TR-ROBERTS SWAMP stream, Twin Lakes Dam's presence not only offers recreational opportunities but also underscores the vital role dams play in managing water resources. With its high hazard potential and poor condition, stakeholders must prioritize safety measures and regular maintenance to mitigate risks and ensure the dam's long-term integrity. As climate change continues to impact water systems, understanding the complexities of dam management and the need for robust regulatory oversight becomes increasingly crucial for safeguarding communities and the environment.

Year Completed

1950

Dam Length

465

Dam Height

20

River Or Stream

TR-ROBERTS SWAMP

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

30

Nid Storage

272

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

20
       
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.