C S Newson Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

C S Newson Dam, located in Lee County, South Carolina, is a privately owned earth dam primarily used for recreation.


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Summary

Built in 1850, this historic dam stands at a height of 8 feet and has a storage capacity of 145 acre-feet. The dam spans 177 feet in length and covers a surface area of 25 acres along Turkey Creek.

Despite its low hazard potential, C S Newson Dam has been assessed as being in poor condition as of November 2017. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and has a moderate risk rating. Regular inspections are conducted every five years to ensure the structural integrity and safety of the dam, although the last inspection date was in 2017. With its picturesque location and historical significance, C S Newson Dam provides a unique opportunity for water resource and climate enthusiasts to explore and appreciate the intersection of human engineering and natural beauty.

Year Completed

1850

Dam Length

177

Dam Height

8

River Or Stream

TURKEY CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

25

Nid Storage

145

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

8
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.