Bowaters Carolina Dam 3 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 15, 2025

Bowaters Carolina Dam 3, located in York, South Carolina, stands as a testament to the state's commitment to water resource management.


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Summary

Built in 1957, this earth dam with a buttress core type serves as a vital offstream structure on the Catawba River, offering storage capacity of 304 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 187 acre-feet. Despite its low hazard potential, recent assessments indicate a poor condition, highlighting the need for proactive maintenance and inspection.

Managed by a private entity, Bowaters Carolina Dam 3 is subject to state regulation by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (SC DHEC), ensuring compliance with permitting, inspection, and enforcement requirements. The dam's primary purpose, categorized as "Other," underscores its multifaceted role in the local water management infrastructure. With a length of 2930 feet and a height of 11 feet, the dam contributes to the surface area of 20 acres, supporting various ecosystem functions and water resource activities.

In light of its historical significance and ongoing operational challenges, Bowaters Carolina Dam 3 represents a critical asset for both water resource and climate enthusiasts. As efforts to enhance dam safety and resilience continue, the dam serves as a focal point for collaboration between private owners, state regulators, and community stakeholders to ensure the sustainable management of water resources in the region.

Year Completed

1957

Dam Length

2930

Dam Height

11

River Or Stream

CATAWBA RIVER OFFSTREAM

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

20

Nid Storage

304

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

11
       
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.
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