Sweetwater Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Redmond Pond Dam Gresette Pond Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Sweetwater Lake Dam in South Carolina, managed by a private owner, was completed in 1969 and stands at a height of 27 feet with a length of 705 feet.
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Summary
The dam serves primarily for recreational purposes, with a normal storage capacity of 227 acre-feet and a total storage of 335 acre-feet. Situated on the TR-CAW CAW SWAMP, the dam is regulated by the SC DHEC and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its fair condition and high hazard potential are managed effectively.
The Sweetwater Lake Dam, designed by USDA NRCS, features an earth core and buttress structure with an uncontrolled spillway. Its location in Calhoun, South Carolina, offers a picturesque setting for water resource and climate enthusiasts to appreciate the importance of maintaining dam safety and emergency preparedness. With a moderate risk assessment and a history of meeting regulatory guidelines, this dam serves as a vital component in the local ecosystem while providing recreational opportunities for the community.
Despite its fair condition and moderate risk, the Sweetwater Lake Dam continues to be a focal point of interest for those interested in water resource management and climate resilience. With a comprehensive risk management plan in place and regular inspections, the dam remains a significant asset in the Savannah District, reflecting the commitment to balancing recreation with safety and environmental stewardship in the region.
Year Completed |
1969 |
Dam Length |
705 |
Dam Height |
27 |
River Or Stream |
TR-CAW CAW SWAMP |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
27 |
Nid Storage |
335 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
27 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
North Fork Edisto River At Orangeburg
|
950cfs |
South Fork Edisto River Near Cope
|
838cfs |
Wateree R. Bl Eastover
|
2400cfs |
South Fork Edisto River Near Denmark
|
805cfs |
South Fork Edisto River Near Bamberg
|
906cfs |
Gills Creek At Columbia
|
76cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Sweetwater Lake Dam