Twelve Mile Creek Wcd Dam 5 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Twelve Mile Creek WCD Dam 5, located in Pickens, South Carolina, stands as a testament to flood risk reduction efforts in the area.


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Summary

Constructed in 1957 by the USDA NRCS, this earth-type dam boasts a height of 49 feet and a length of 265 feet, with a primary purpose of flood risk reduction. The dam's maximum storage capacity is 399 acre-feet, offering valuable protection to the surrounding area.

With a Hazard Potential rating of High and a Condition Assessment of Fair, Twelve Mile Creek WCD Dam 5 is closely monitored by the SC DHEC to ensure its safety and effectiveness. Despite its age, the dam continues to serve its community well, providing not only flood risk reduction but also recreational opportunities for visitors. Situated along Gregory Creek, this dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region and remains a key component in the overall water infrastructure of South Carolina.

As climate change continues to impact weather patterns and increase the risk of extreme events, the importance of structures like Twelve Mile Creek WCD Dam 5 cannot be overstated. With its strategic design and maintenance, this dam serves as a vital line of defense against flooding and helps to protect the local environment and communities. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, we recognize the critical role that dams like this play in safeguarding our natural resources and ensuring the well-being of our communities for generations to come.

Year Completed

1957

Dam Length

265

Dam Height

49

River Or Stream

GREGORY CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

7

Nid Storage

399

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

49
       
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.