Ware Shoals Reservoir Report
Nearby: Hendricks Pond Dam Knights Pond Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Ware Shoals is a private hydroelectric dam located on the Saluda River in Greenwood, South Carolina.
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Summary
Built in 1905, this gravity dam stands at 24 feet high and spans 641.75 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 484 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 31,550 cubic feet per second. The dam's primary purpose is to generate hydroelectric power, making it a key player in the region's renewable energy infrastructure.
With a high hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, Ware Shoals is closely monitored by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission for safety and compliance. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 500 feet and is equipped with a Tainter (radial) outlet gate. Despite its age, Ware Shoals remains operational and continues to contribute to the local water resource management and energy production efforts. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Ware Shoals serves as a fascinating example of historic dam engineering and its role in sustainable energy generation.
Year Completed |
1905 |
Dam Length |
641.75 |
Dam Height |
24 |
River Or Stream |
Saluda River |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
40 |
Hydraulic Height |
24 |
Drainage Area |
564 |
Nid Storage |
484 |
Structural Height |
24 |
Outlet Gates |
Tainter (radial) - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock |
Nid Height |
24 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Saluda River Near Ware Shoals
|
503cfs |
South Rabon Creek Near Gray Court
|
17cfs |
Reedy River Above Fork Shoals
|
116cfs |
Saluda River Near Williamston
|
458cfs |
Rocky River Nr Starr
|
58cfs |
Durbin Creek Above Fountain Inn
|
8cfs |
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.
Ware Shoals