Lockhart Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lockhart Dam, located in Union, South Carolina, is a privately-owned structure primarily used for hydroelectric purposes.


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Summary

Built in 1921, this gravity dam stands at a height of 16 feet and spans 1299 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 2400 acre-feet. The dam's reservoir covers a surface area of 300 acres and drains an area of 2440 square miles, with a maximum discharge capacity of 84300 cubic feet per second.

Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Lockhart Dam has an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 862 feet and a low hazard potential. Despite its age, the dam's risk assessment remains moderate, reflecting its overall sound condition and management. The surrounding area benefits from the renewable energy generated by the dam's hydroelectric operations, contributing to sustainable practices in water resource management and climate conservation efforts.

Lockhart Dam plays a crucial role in the region's water resource infrastructure, providing both energy and flood control benefits to the community. With its historical significance and continued operational relevance, the dam serves as a symbol of innovation and resilience in harnessing the power of water resources for a sustainable future. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Lockhart Dam represents a fascinating intersection of engineering ingenuity and environmental stewardship in the heart of South Carolina's landscape.

Year Completed

1921

Dam Length

1299

Dam Height

16

River Or Stream

Broad

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

300

Hydraulic Height

16

Drainage Area

2440

Nid Storage

2400

Structural Height

16

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

16
       
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.