Lower Pacolet is a privately owned hydroelectric dam located on the Pacolet River in Spartanburg, South Carolina. 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.