Issaqueena Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Issaqueena Lake Dam, located in Pickens, South Carolina, is a gravity dam completed in 1940 primarily for recreational purposes.


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Summary

Standing at a height of 40 feet and stretching 250 feet in length, the dam has a storage capacity of 1207 acre-feet and a surface area of 85 acres. It is regulated by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (SC DHEC) and undergoes regular inspections, with its hazard potential rated as low and its overall condition assessed as fair.

The dam's controlled spillway type ensures efficient water management, with a maximum storage capacity of 1207 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 612 acre-feet. The risk assessment for Issaqueena Lake Dam is classified as very high, indicating the importance of effective risk management measures being in place. Despite its age, the dam continues to serve as a vital recreational resource for the surrounding area, offering opportunities for outdoor activities and water sports. With its impressive hydraulic and structural features, Issaqueena Lake Dam stands as a testament to engineering excellence and environmental stewardship in the region.

Year Completed

1940

Dam Length

250

Dam Height

40

River Or Stream

TR-KEOWEE RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

85

Nid Storage

1207

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

40
       
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.