Columbia Embankment And Canal Spillway Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
The Columbia Embankment and Canal Spillway, located in Columbia, South Carolina, is a significant public utility structure with a primary purpose of hydroelectric power generation and water supply.
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Summary
Completed in 1882, this earth type dam stands at a height of 8 feet and stretches over a length of 18,480 feet, providing a storage capacity of 800 acre-feet. With a controlled spillway width of 30 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 840 cubic feet per second, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region.
Owned by a public utility entity and regulated by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, the Columbia Embankment and Canal Spillway has a significant hazard potential and is classified as a very high-risk structure. While the condition assessment is currently not available, regular inspections are conducted, with the last inspection taking place in February 2020. With its location on the Broad River and its contribution to the local water supply and hydroelectric power generation, this dam serves as a vital component of the region's infrastructure.
Despite its age, the Columbia Embankment and Canal Spillway continues to play a crucial role in water resource management in Richland County, South Carolina. With its storied history, impressive engineering design, and ongoing regulatory oversight, this structure stands as a testament to the importance of maintaining and ensuring the safety of water infrastructure for both present and future generations of residents and climate enthusiasts in the region.
Year Completed |
1882 |
Dam Length |
18480 |
Dam Height |
8 |
River Or Stream |
Broad |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
265 |
Hydraulic Height |
8 |
Nid Storage |
800 |
Structural Height |
8 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
8 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Smith Branch At North Main St At Columbia
|
3cfs |
Congaree River At Columbia
|
3010cfs |
Saluda River Near Columbia
|
907cfs |
Gills Creek At Columbia
|
37cfs |
Saluda River Below Lk Murray Dam Nr Columbia
|
790cfs |
Broad River At Alston
|
1880cfs |
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.
Columbia Embankment And Canal Spillway