Lake Elliott Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Lake Elliott Dam in Kershaw, South Carolina, is a privately owned earth dam completed in 1965 for recreational purposes.
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Summary
Standing at a height of 19 feet and stretching 695 feet in length, the dam boasts a storage capacity of 216 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 20 acres. The dam is regulated by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations.
Despite its significant hazard potential and poor condition assessment, Lake Elliott Dam remains a popular spot for outdoor recreation enthusiasts. The dam overlooks the scenic Beaverdam Branch river, offering visitors a tranquil setting for fishing, boating, and picnicking. However, its condition raises concerns about the potential risks associated with a breach, highlighting the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance efforts to ensure the safety of both the dam and the surrounding community.
With its historical significance and recreational value, Lake Elliott Dam serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between water resource management and climate resilience. As climate change continues to pose challenges for infrastructure like dams, stakeholders must work together to implement risk management measures and emergency preparedness plans to safeguard both the dam and the natural environment it supports.
Year Completed |
1965 |
Dam Length |
695 |
Dam Height |
19 |
River Or Stream |
BEAVERDAM BRANCH |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
20 |
Nid Storage |
216 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
19 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Wateree River Nr. Camden
|
2170cfs |
Lynches River Near Bishopville
|
425cfs |
Black Creek Near Hartsville
|
142cfs |
Black Creek Near Mcbee
|
128cfs |
Rocky Creek At Great Falls
|
19cfs |
Fishing Creek Below Fort Lawn
|
62cfs |
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.
Lake Elliott Dam