Clemons Lower Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Clemons Upper Dam Lloyd Baxley Dam
Last Updated: December 14, 2025
Located in Williamsburg, South Carolina, Clemons Lower Dam is a private-owned structure that serves primarily for recreation purposes.
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Summary
Built in 1955, this earth dam stands at a height of 13 feet and has a length of 400 feet, creating a reservoir with a storage capacity of 243 acre-feet. Despite its significance in providing recreational opportunities, the dam's condition has been assessed as poor, with a significant hazard potential.
Maintained and regulated by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC), Clemons Lower Dam has undergone inspections with a frequency of every 3 years. The last inspection in September 2020 revealed the dam's poor condition, prompting a closer assessment of its risk management measures. Despite its condition, the dam continues to be a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts, attracting visitors to its scenic location on McGinney Creek.
With its location in the Charleston District and under state jurisdiction, Clemons Lower Dam remains a key feature in the landscape of South Carolina. As discussions around dam safety and maintenance continue, the dam serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between recreational benefits and the responsibility of ensuring the safety and integrity of water resource infrastructure.
Year Completed |
1955 |
Dam Length |
400 |
Dam Height |
13 |
River Or Stream |
MCGINNEY CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
18 |
Nid Storage |
243 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
13 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Pee Dee River At Hwy 701 Nr Bucksport
|
8500cfs |
Turkey Creek Near Maryville
|
2cfs |
Santee River Nr Jamestown
|
1170cfs |
Black River At Kingstree
|
1280cfs |
Waccamaw River At Conway Marina At Conway
|
2260cfs |
Little Pee Dee R. At Galivants Ferry
|
2320cfs |
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.
Clemons Lower Dam