Harvey Shaw Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Harvey Shaw Dam, located in Lee, South Carolina, stands as a significant earth dam that was completed in 1950.


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Summary

With a height of 10 feet and a length of 500 feet, the dam boasts a storage capacity of 78 acre-feet, primarily serving the purpose of recreation. The dam, situated on the TR-Black River, is privately owned and regulated by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control.

Despite its fair condition assessment as of January 2019, Harvey Shaw Dam poses a significant hazard potential due to its location and structural elements. With an inspection frequency of three years, the dam is regularly monitored to ensure its integrity and safety. The emergency action plan (EAP) status and risk assessment for the dam are currently unspecified, raising questions about the level of preparedness in case of a potential hazard event.

Enthusiasts of water resources and climate may find Harvey Shaw Dam to be a compelling subject of study, given its historical significance, structural design, and regulatory framework. As a key element in the local water management infrastructure, the dam serves as both a recreational site and a critical component in flood control and water supply management in the region. Further research into the dam's risk management measures, emergency preparedness, and overall impact on the surrounding ecosystem could provide valuable insights into the intersection of water resource management and climate adaptation strategies.

Year Completed

1950

Dam Length

500

Dam Height

10

River Or Stream

TR-BLACK RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

14

Nid Storage

78

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

10
       
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.