Neal Shoals Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Neal Shoals is a concrete multi-arch dam located on the Broad River in Union, South Carolina.


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Summary

Completed in 1905, this hydroelectric structure stands at a height of 24.5 feet and has a structural height of 32 feet. With a capacity to store up to 1492 acre-feet of water and a maximum discharge rate of 4000 cubic feet per second, Neal Shoals plays a crucial role in regulating water flow and generating hydroelectric power in the region.

Operated by a public utility, Neal Shoals is primarily overseen by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC). The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 987 feet and two slide (sluice gate) outlet gates. Despite its low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, the dam's condition assessment is currently unavailable, highlighting the need for ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure its long-term safety and efficiency.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Neal Shoals offers a fascinating glimpse into the intersection of infrastructure, energy generation, and environmental stewardship. As a historic hydroelectric facility with a century-old legacy, this dam continues to serve as a vital resource for water management and renewable energy production in the picturesque landscapes of Union, South Carolina.

Year Completed

1905

Dam Length

1295

Dam Height

24.5

River Or Stream

Broad River

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

550

Hydraulic Height

25

Drainage Area

2730

Nid Storage

1492

Structural Height

32

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate) - 2

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

32
       
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.