Lake Saranac Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lake Saranac Dam in Spartanburg, South Carolina, is a privately owned structure regulated by the state's Department of Health and Environmental Control.


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Summary

The dam, situated on Mineral Spring Branch, stands at a height of 39 feet with a length of 290 feet, offering a storage capacity of 304 acre-feet for recreational purposes. Despite its fair condition assessment and low hazard potential, the dam is inspected every five years to ensure public safety.

The dam, primarily constructed of earth with a buttress core type, serves as a popular spot for water resource and climate enthusiasts seeking outdoor recreation opportunities in the area. With a normal storage capacity of 120 acre-feet and a surface area of 15 acres, Lake Saranac Dam provides a picturesque setting for activities such as fishing, boating, and wildlife observation. Its location within the Charleston District adds to its appeal for those looking to explore the natural beauty of South Carolina.

Although the dam's last inspection took place in May 2017, the structure continues to meet state regulatory standards, with enforcement and permitting processes in place to ensure its ongoing maintenance and operation. As a key feature of the local landscape, Lake Saranac Dam offers a tranquil escape for visitors while remaining a well-regulated and monitored resource for water enthusiasts in the region.

Dam Length

290

Dam Height

39

River Or Stream

MINERAL SPRING BRANCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

15

Nid Storage

304

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

39
       
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.