Oconee Intake Dike Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Oconee Intake Dike, located in Newry, SC, is a vital structure operated by Duke Power Co.


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Summary

The dike, completed in 1971, serves multiple purposes including hydroelectric power generation, recreation, and water supply. With a height of 80 feet and a length of 1200 feet, the earth dam stores a maximum of 955,586 acre-feet of water, covering a surface area of 18,372 acres. Despite its high hazard potential, the condition assessment of the dam is currently not available.

Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Oconee Intake Dike plays a crucial role in the region's water resource management. The dam is associated with seven structures and is part of the Nashville District of the US Army Corps of Engineers. It stands on the Oconee River, contributing to the enhancement of the local ecosystem and providing essential services to the surrounding communities. While the risk assessment for the dam is high, specific risk management measures are yet to be detailed.

As a key component of the hydroelectric infrastructure in South Carolina, Oconee Intake Dike exemplifies the intersection of water resource management and climate resilience. Its strategic location and design underscore the importance of sustainable water supply and energy generation practices in the face of changing environmental conditions. With ongoing inspections and emergency preparedness measures, the dam continues to safeguard the region's water resources while addressing the challenges posed by climate variability.

Year Completed

1971

Dam Length

1200

Dam Height

80

River Or Stream

Oconee

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

18372

Hydraulic Height

80

Nid Storage

955586

Structural Height

80

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

80
       
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.