Wateree Creek Wcd Dam 4 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 15, 2025
Wateree Creek WCD Dam 4, located in Fairfield, South Carolina, is a vital structure designed by the USDA NRCS to mitigate flood risks in the region.
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Summary
Completed in 1960, this earth dam stands at a height of 41 feet and spans 700 feet in length, providing a storage capacity of 846 acre-feet. The dam is primarily regulated by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) and undergoes regular state inspections to ensure its structural integrity.
This low-hazard dam is classified as an earth dam with buttress core types and an uncontrolled spillway. Despite its fair condition assessment in May 2017, the dam has a moderate risk assessment rating. With a focus on flood risk reduction, Wateree Creek WCD Dam 4 serves as a critical infrastructure in safeguarding the surrounding area, particularly along Gaydens Creek. The dam's emergency action plan status and risk management measures are currently unlisted, indicating a potential area for improvement in the future.
Overall, Wateree Creek WCD Dam 4 plays a crucial role in managing water resources and mitigating flood risks in Fairfield, South Carolina. With its strategic location and design, the dam not only provides essential flood protection but also contributes to the overall water management efforts in the region. As climate change continues to impact water resources, structures like Wateree Creek WCD Dam 4 are essential for ensuring the resilience and sustainability of the local ecosystem.
Year Completed |
1960 |
Dam Length |
700 |
Dam Height |
41 |
River Or Stream |
GAYDENS CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
13 |
Nid Storage |
846 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
41 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Rocky Creek At Great Falls
|
11cfs |
Fishing Creek Below Fort Lawn
|
32cfs |
Broad River Near Carlisle
|
1320cfs |
Broad River At Alston
|
1810cfs |
Catawba River Below Catawba
|
1610cfs |
Tyger River Near Delta
|
469cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Wateree Creek Wcd Dam 4