Wayne Hooks Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Wayne Hooks Dam, located in Horry, South Carolina, is a privately owned structure primarily used for recreation.


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Summary

Completed in 1965, this earth dam stands at 8 feet in height and spans 700 feet in length, creating a reservoir with a storage capacity of 84 acre-feet. The dam is situated on the Cartwheel Branch, providing a serene environment for water resource and climate enthusiasts to enjoy various outdoor activities.

Managed by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC), Wayne Hooks Dam has a low hazard potential and has not been rated for its condition assessment as of the last inspection in December 2017. Despite its modest size, the dam serves as a vital component in the local water management system, ensuring the availability of recreational opportunities and contributing to the overall ecological balance of the area. With its close proximity to Wilmington District, this dam offers a peaceful retreat for visitors seeking to immerse themselves in nature.

Although Wayne Hooks Dam may not be as imposing as some other structures, its role in providing recreational opportunities and regulating water flow on the Cartwheel Branch is essential for maintaining the environmental health of the region. As a privately owned facility with state regulation and inspection, the dam serves as a testament to the importance of responsible water resource management in South Carolina. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Wayne Hooks Dam offers a glimpse into the intricate balance between human recreation and natural preservation in the state.

Year Completed

1965

Dam Length

700

Dam Height

8

River Or Stream

CARTWHEEL BRANCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

15

Nid Storage

84

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

8
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.