Santee Dam, also known as Santee (Wilson) Dam, is a significant earth dam located on the Santee River in South Carolina. Completed in 1942, the dam stands at a height of 50 feet and serves multiple purposes, including flood risk reduction, hydroelectric power generation, navigation, recreation, and water supply. With a normal storage capacity of 1.26 million acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 1.3 million cubic feet per second, Santee Dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region.

Owned by the state of South Carolina, Santee Dam is regulated by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission and has a high hazard potential due to its size and location. The dam features a controlled spillway with a width of 3,358 feet and is equipped with 62 Tainter (radial) gates for water release. Despite its age, the dam's risk assessment is classified as very high, indicating the need for ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure its safety and effectiveness in mitigating flood risks and providing essential water resources for the surrounding communities.

Situated in Berkeley County, Santee Dam not only protects the region from flooding but also contributes to the economic and environmental well-being of the area. With its impressive storage capacity, hydroelectric power generation capabilities, and recreational opportunities, Santee Dam stands as a testament to the engineering ingenuity and importance of water resource management in sustaining the climate and communities it serves.