Lyman Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Located in Spartanburg, South Carolina, Lyman Lake Dam serves as a vital recreational resource for the local community.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Completed in 1955, this earth dam stands at a height of 43 feet and spans a length of 260 feet, creating a reservoir with a storage capacity of 12,245 acre-feet. The dam is situated on the Middle Tyger River, providing a picturesque setting for activities such as boating, fishing, and camping.

Despite its recreational importance, Lyman Lake Dam has been flagged with a high hazard potential and a poor condition assessment. The dam is owned and regulated by the local government, with the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control overseeing state permitting, inspection, and enforcement. The last inspection in February 2020 revealed the need for maintenance and improvements to ensure the safety and integrity of the structure.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts continue to appreciate the beauty and functionality of Lyman Lake Dam, there is a growing emphasis on the importance of proper maintenance and risk management. With its rich history and significant storage capacity, this dam plays a crucial role in providing recreational opportunities while also highlighting the need for ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure the safety of both the dam and the surrounding community.

Year Completed

1955

Dam Length

260

Dam Height

43

River Or Stream

MIDDLE TYGER RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

418

Nid Storage

12245

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

43
       
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.