Horseshoe Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Horseshoe Lake Dam, also known as Big Lake Dam, is a privately owned structure located in Oconee, South Carolina.


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Summary

Built in 1960 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 38 feet and stretches 400 feet in length. The primary purpose of the dam is for irrigation, with additional benefits for recreation.

Despite its age, Horseshoe Lake Dam is in poor condition and has a high hazard potential. The dam is classified as uncontrolled, with a spillway width of 0, posing a risk to the surrounding area in the event of a failure. The last inspection in June 2019 highlighted the need for improvements to ensure the safety and stability of the dam.

With a moderate risk assessment rating, there is a pressing need for risk management measures to be implemented at Horseshoe Lake Dam. As a key water resource in the region, efforts to address the dam's poor condition and high hazard potential are crucial to protecting both the local community and the environment. Climate enthusiasts and water resource professionals alike are closely monitoring developments at this site to ensure the safety and sustainability of this important infrastructure.

Year Completed

1960

Dam Length

400

Dam Height

38

River Or Stream

TR-LONG CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

17

Nid Storage

306

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

38
       
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.