Bay Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Bay Lake Dam, located in Darlington, South Carolina, serves as a crucial irrigation infrastructure.
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Summary
Completed in 1955, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 12 feet and stretches for 450 feet, with a storage capacity of 207 acre-feet. The dam primarily caters to the irrigation needs of the area, while also offering recreational opportunities for the community.
Managed by a private owner, Bay Lake Dam is regulated and inspected by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC). With a low hazard potential, the dam has not been rated for its condition assessment, but it meets state jurisdiction and permitting requirements. While it does not have an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) in place, the dam has undergone regular inspections, with the last one conducted in May 2002.
Overall, Bay Lake Dam serves as a vital water resource for the surrounding area, ensuring water supply for agricultural needs while also providing a recreational environment. Its historical significance and continued functionality highlight the importance of sustainable water management practices in the face of changing climate patterns.
Year Completed |
1955 |
Dam Length |
450 |
Dam Height |
12 |
River Or Stream |
BAY BRANCH |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
34 |
Nid Storage |
207 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
12 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Lynches River Near Bishopville
|
425cfs |
Lynches River At Effingham
|
852cfs |
Black Creek Near Quinby
|
376cfs |
Black Creek Near Hartsville
|
142cfs |
Pee Dee River Below Pee Dee
|
3450cfs |
Pee Dee River At Peedee
|
3390cfs |
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.
Bay Lake Dam