H B Turner Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Located in Lee, South Carolina, the H B Turner Dam stands as a pivotal structure along the TR-Black River, serving primarily for recreation purposes since its completion in 1948.


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Summary

This private-owned earth dam, with a height of 14 feet and a length of 800 feet, holds a maximum storage capacity of 81 acre-feet, making it a significant asset in the region's water resource management. Despite its poor condition assessment in 2017, the dam's hazard potential remains low, ensuring the safety of surrounding communities.

Managed by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (SC DHEC), the dam undergoes regular inspections every five years to ensure its structural integrity. With a surface area of 13 acres and a normal storage capacity of 42 acre-feet, the H B Turner Dam contributes to the conservation of water resources in the area. Its low hazard potential and state-regulated status highlight its importance in maintaining the ecological balance of the TR-Black River ecosystem.

As a vital part of the Charleston District's water infrastructure, the H B Turner Dam plays a crucial role in mitigating flood risks and providing recreational opportunities for locals and visitors alike. Despite its challenges in condition assessment, the dam stands as a testament to the intersection of water resource management and climate resilience in South Carolina, showcasing the importance of sustainable infrastructure development in the face of evolving environmental threats.

Year Completed

1948

Dam Length

800

Dam Height

14

River Or Stream

TR-BLACK RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

13

Nid Storage

81

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

14
       
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.