Lockhart East Canal Embankment Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lockhart East Canal Embankment, located in Union, South Carolina, is a historic earth dam constructed in 1920 for hydroelectric purposes.


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Summary

With a height of 20 feet and a length of 7350 feet, this structure has a storage capacity of 2400 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 914 acre-feet. The dam, situated on the Broad River, serves as a crucial component in the region's water resource management and energy production.

Managed by a private entity, the Lockhart East Canal Embankment has a high hazard potential, prompting regular inspections by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission. Despite its age, the dam's condition assessment is currently marked as "Not Available," indicating a need for further evaluation and risk management measures. The structure's emergency action plan was last revised in December 2020, highlighting the importance of preparedness in the event of a potential emergency or disaster.

As part of the Charleston District, the Lockhart East Canal Embankment plays a significant role in the local community's infrastructure and environmental landscape. Its strategic location and historical significance make it a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in understanding the intersection of hydroelectric power generation and dam safety in South Carolina.

Year Completed

1920

Dam Length

7350

Dam Height

20

River Or Stream

Broad

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

300

Hydraulic Height

18

Nid Storage

2400

Structural Height

20

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

20
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

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.