Saddle Dike No. 1 - Jocassee Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Saddle Dike No.


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Summary

1 in Jocassee, South Carolina, is a significant public utility structure associated with the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission. Completed in 1973, this earth dam stands at a height of 35 feet and spans 825 feet in length, serving primarily for hydroelectric purposes. Situated in Oconee County, the dam's reservoir boasts a storage capacity of 1,160,298 acre-feet, covering a surface area of 7,565 acres and harnessing the power of the Keowee River.

Despite its crucial role in providing hydroelectric power, Saddle Dike No. 1 poses a high hazard potential, prompting regular inspections by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission. The dam's condition assessment is currently not available, but an Emergency Action Plan was last revised in December 2020 to ensure preparedness for any unforeseen events. Despite its risks, the dam continues to be a vital component of the region's water resource management, reflecting the delicate balance between harnessing nature's power and ensuring public safety.

Located in the scenic surroundings of Clemson, SC, Saddle Dike No. 1 stands as a testament to engineering ingenuity and the ongoing efforts to manage water resources in a sustainable and responsible manner. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, the complex interplay between infrastructure development and environmental stewardship at sites like Saddle Dike No. 1 serves as a compelling case study in the quest for a harmonious coexistence between human needs and natural ecosystems.

Year Completed

1973

Dam Length

825

Dam Height

35

River Or Stream

Keowee

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

7565

Hydraulic Height

35

Nid Storage

1160298

Structural Height

35

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

35
       
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.