Lucille Shepard Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 15, 2025
Located in Williamsburg, South Carolina, the Lucille Shepard Dam is a private-owned structure built in 1952 for the primary purpose of recreation.
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Summary
Standing at a height of 12 feet and spanning 375 feet in length, this Earth-type dam holds a storage capacity of 81 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 36 acre-feet. The dam is situated on the Gumtree Branch river stream and is regulated by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC).
Despite its low hazard potential, the Lucille Shepard Dam received an unsatisfactory condition assessment during its last inspection in November 2017. This assessment highlights the need for further maintenance and improvements to ensure the safety and integrity of the structure. With a designated inspection frequency of 5 years, the dam requires regular monitoring and upkeep to mitigate any potential risks or hazards. Additionally, the dam lacks Emergency Action Plans (EAP) and other risk management measures, indicating a need for enhanced emergency preparedness protocols. Water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate the importance of maintaining and safeguarding structures like the Lucille Shepard Dam to ensure the sustainable management of water resources and the protection of surrounding ecosystems.
Year Completed |
1952 |
Dam Length |
375 |
Dam Height |
12 |
River Or Stream |
GUMTREE BRANCH |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
15 |
Nid Storage |
81 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
12 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Black River At Kingstree
|
1280cfs |
Santee River Nr Jamestown
|
1170cfs |
Santee River Near Pineville
|
676cfs |
Lake Moultrie Tailrace Canal At Moncks Corner
|
9370cfs |
Turkey Creek Near Maryville
|
2cfs |
Back River At Dupont Intake Nr Kittredge
|
311cfs |
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.
Lucille Shepard Dam