Santee State Park Dam 1 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Santee State Park Dam 1, located in Orangeburg, South Carolina, was completed in 1974 and is primarily used for recreation purposes.
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Summary
Owned by the state, this earth dam stands at a height of 25 feet and has a length of 540 feet, creating a reservoir with a maximum storage capacity of 85 acre-feet. The dam is regulated by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) and is inspected regularly to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations.
Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, Santee State Park Dam 1 has been assessed to be in poor condition as of July 2017. The dam's emergency action plan (EAP) status, risk assessment, and risk management measures are currently unspecified, indicating potential areas for improvement in emergency preparedness and mitigation strategies. With a moderate risk rating of 3, it is crucial for stakeholders to prioritize maintenance and monitoring efforts to address the dam's condition and reduce potential risks associated with its operation.
As a key feature in the TR-Lake Marion watershed, Santee State Park Dam 1 serves as a vital resource for water recreation enthusiasts and climate-conscious individuals. With its location in the Charleston District and oversight by state agencies, the dam plays a significant role in water management and conservation efforts in the region. By staying informed about the dam's condition and participating in conservation initiatives, enthusiasts can contribute to the preservation of this important water resource for future generations.
Year Completed |
1974 |
Dam Length |
540 |
Dam Height |
25 |
River Or Stream |
TR-LAKE MARION |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
7 |
Nid Storage |
85 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
25 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Santee River Near Pineville
|
615cfs |
North Fork Edisto River At Orangeburg
|
900cfs |
Wateree R. Bl Eastover
|
2400cfs |
South Fork Edisto River Near Bamberg
|
785cfs |
Edisto River Nr Givhans
|
1100cfs |
South Fork Edisto River Near Cope
|
736cfs |
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.
Santee State Park Dam 1
Boy Scout Circle Orangeburg County