Westvaco Dam 1, located in Berkeley, South Carolina, is a state-owned structure built in 1953 primarily for recreational purposes.
Wind
Humidity
Standing at a height of 13 feet and stretching 2,300 feet in length, the earth dam with a buttress core holds a normal storage capacity of 147 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 600 acre-feet. Situated on the TR-East Branch Cooper River, this dam offers a surface area of 92 acres for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy various water activities.
Despite its low hazard potential, Westvaco Dam 1 has been assessed as being in poor condition as of the last inspection in November 2017. The State of South Carolina regulates this dam, with the State Department of Health and Environmental Control overseeing its permitting, inspection, and enforcement. While the dam has not undergone any modifications in recent years and lacks detailed information on its foundations and spillway, its emergency action plan status and risk management measures remain unspecified.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Westvaco Dam 1 presents an intriguing case study of a recreational dam in need of attention and potential restoration efforts to ensure its safety and longevity. With a rich history dating back to the mid-20th century, this dam serves as a reminder of the importance of proper maintenance and monitoring in preserving essential water infrastructure for both recreational and environmental purposes.
Year Completed |
1953 |
Dam Length |
2300 |
Dam Height |
13 |
River Or Stream |
TR-EAST BRANCH COOPER RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
92 |
Nid Storage |
600 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
13 |
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2390cfs |
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1070cfs |
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1500cfs |
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1100cfs |
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615cfs |
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1cfs |