Thrift Brothers Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Thrill-seeking water enthusiasts and climate advocates alike will be drawn to the captivating story of Thrift Brothers Dam, located in Oconee, South Carolina.


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Summary

Built in 1970 by the USDA NRCS, this private dam on the TR-CHAUGA RIVER stands at a height of 43 feet and stretches 350 feet in length. While its primary purpose is for recreation, the dam also serves as a vital storage facility with a capacity of 118 acre-feet, providing essential water resources for the surrounding area.

Despite its age, Thrift Brothers Dam has faced challenges in recent years, with a poor condition assessment in 2017 raising concerns about its structural integrity. Classified as having a low hazard potential but a moderate risk level, the dam is under the regulatory oversight of SC DHEC, ensuring that necessary inspections and enforcement measures are in place. With its uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, the dam presents a unique blend of recreation and risk, making it a fascinating site for water resource and climate enthusiasts to explore and advocate for its maintenance and safety.

As visitors take in the scenic beauty of Thrift Brothers Dam and enjoy its recreational offerings, they are also reminded of the importance of sustainable water management practices and the need to address aging infrastructure to mitigate potential risks. With the support of regulatory agencies and ongoing assessments, Thrift Brothers Dam stands as a reminder of the delicate balance between human activity and environmental stewardship in safeguarding our water resources for future generations.

Year Completed

1970

Dam Length

350

Dam Height

43

River Or Stream

TR-CHAUGA RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

8

Nid Storage

118

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

43
       
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.