Ginger Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: J C Shecut Dam Robert Schrimpf Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Ginger Lake Dam, located in Orangeburg, South Carolina, is a privately owned earth dam completed in 1960 for the primary purpose of recreation.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
With a height of 13 feet and a length of 580 feet, the dam provides a storage capacity of 166 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 79 acre-feet. The dam is situated on the Early Branch river and is regulated by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC).
Despite being categorized as having a significant hazard potential, Ginger Lake Dam is currently assessed to be in fair condition as of December 2018. The dam undergoes inspections every three years to ensure its safety and integrity. With its picturesque location and recreational opportunities, including a surface area of 22 acres for water enthusiasts to enjoy, Ginger Lake Dam serves as a popular destination for visitors seeking outdoor activities in the region.
Managed by a private owner, this dam plays a crucial role in providing recreational opportunities while also being subject to state regulations and inspections. As a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts, Ginger Lake Dam stands as a testament to the importance of maintaining and monitoring infrastructure to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all who visit.
Year Completed |
1960 |
Dam Length |
580 |
Dam Height |
13 |
River Or Stream |
EARLY BRANCH |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
22 |
Nid Storage |
166 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
13 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
North Fork Edisto River At Orangeburg
|
950cfs |
South Fork Edisto River Near Bamberg
|
906cfs |
South Fork Edisto River Near Cope
|
838cfs |
South Fork Edisto River Near Denmark
|
805cfs |
Wateree R. Bl Eastover
|
2400cfs |
Gills Creek At Columbia
|
76cfs |
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.
Ginger Lake Dam