Thrift Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Thrif Lake Dam, also known as Lake Front Homes Pond Dam, is a private-owned structure located in Oconee, South Carolina.


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Summary

Built in 1962 by the USDA NRCS, this earth-type dam stands at a height of 42 feet and stretches 392 feet in length, creating a surface area of 8 acres. With a primary purpose of recreation, the dam provides a storage capacity of 146 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 122 acre-feet.

Managed by the SC DHEC, Thrift Lake Dam has a low hazard potential and is currently in fair condition as of the last assessment in May 2017. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, with inspections carried out every 5 years to ensure its safety and integrity. While the risk assessment for the dam is moderate, the overall risk management measures and emergency preparedness status are not specified in the available data.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Thrift Lake Dam presents an intriguing case study of a privately-owned recreational structure with a significant impact on the surrounding environment and community. With its historical significance and ongoing regulatory oversight, this dam serves as a focal point for understanding the intersection of water management, infrastructure development, and risk mitigation in the context of South Carolina's diverse landscape.

Year Completed

1962

Dam Length

392

Dam Height

42

River Or Stream

LICK LOG CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

8

Nid Storage

146

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

42
       
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.