Wateree Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 15, 2025
Wateree, located in Camden, South Carolina, is a gravity dam on the Catawba River with a primary purpose of hydroelectric power generation.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Built in 1919 by the Wateree Power Company, this dam stands at an impressive height of 92 feet and has a length of 1370 feet, providing a storage capacity of 262,394 acre-feet and covering a surface area of 13,250 acres. With a maximum discharge of 987,450 cubic feet per second, Wateree plays a crucial role in water supply and energy production in the region.
Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Wateree has a high hazard potential and is classified as a moderate risk, requiring regular inspections and emergency action planning. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 1450 feet and is designed to withstand various types of foundations and core structures. Despite not being state-regulated, Wateree serves as a vital resource for the community and contributes to the overall water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the area.
With its historical significance and environmental impact, Wateree represents a key infrastructure for both water resource and climate enthusiasts. The dam's multifaceted purposes, including hydroelectric power generation and water supply, highlight its importance in sustaining the local ecosystem and economy. As a part of the Savannah District, Wateree stands as a testament to engineering ingenuity and serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between harnessing natural resources and protecting the environment for future generations.
Year Completed |
1919 |
Dam Length |
1370 |
Dam Height |
92 |
River Or Stream |
Catawba River |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
13250 |
Hydraulic Height |
92 |
Drainage Area |
4750 |
Nid Storage |
262394 |
Structural Height |
92 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock |
Nid Height |
92 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Wateree Military
|
||
Camp Longridge
|
||
Lake Wateree State Rec Area
|
Wateree