Lower Pacolet Reservoir Report
Nearby: Theiler Lake Dam Jakob Amann Pond Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Lower Pacolet is a privately owned hydroelectric dam located on the Pacolet River in Spartanburg, South Carolina.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Built in 1890, this gravity dam stands at a height of 23 feet and has a length of 494 feet, providing a normal storage capacity of 99 acre-feet. With a low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, the dam is classified as having a controlled spillway type with a width of 347 feet. Despite being under the jurisdiction of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, the dam is not regulated by the state and does not require regular inspections or permitting.
This historic structure, constructed over a century ago, plays a crucial role in generating hydroelectric power in the region. With a drainage area of 460 square miles and a maximum discharge capacity of 5400 cubic feet per second, Lower Pacolet contributes to the water resource management and energy production in the area. Although the dam has not been modified in recent years and its condition assessment is not available, emergency action plans have been prepared and updated periodically to ensure public safety in the event of a dam failure.
Lower Pacolet is a significant landmark in the Pacolet River, serving as a testament to the ingenuity of early dam designers. Despite its age, the dam continues to play a vital role in the local ecosystem and economy, providing clean energy and water storage for the surrounding community. With its historical significance and ongoing operational relevance, Lower Pacolet stands as a reminder of the enduring impact of water resource management and climate adaptation efforts in the region.
Year Completed |
1890 |
Dam Length |
494 |
Dam Height |
23 |
River Or Stream |
Pacolet River |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
11 |
Hydraulic Height |
23 |
Drainage Area |
460 |
Nid Storage |
99 |
Structural Height |
23 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Rock |
Nid Height |
23 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Lower Pacolet
Cowpens Veterans Memorial Park
Croft State Park
J. J. Adams Memorial Park
Brotherhood Park
John Q Little Park