Parr Shoals Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 16, 2025
Parr Shoals Dam, located in Newberry, South Carolina, is a gravity dam with a height of 52 feet and a hydraulic height of 45 feet.
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Summary
Completed in 1914, the dam serves as a hydroelectric facility on the Broad River, with a storage capacity of 32,000 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 163,080 cubic feet per second. The dam's spillway is controlled and has a width of 2000 feet, providing essential flood control measures for the surrounding area.
Managed by a public utility, Parr Shoals Dam is regulated by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety and integrity. With a hazard potential rated as high and a risk assessment indicating a very high risk level, the dam's emergency action plan is crucial in mitigating potential threats to downstream communities. The dam's primary purpose is hydroelectric generation, contributing to the region's energy needs while also providing recreational opportunities in the surrounding area.
Despite its age, Parr Shoals Dam continues to play a vital role in water resource management and climate adaptation efforts in South Carolina. With its historical significance as a key infrastructure project in the early 20th century, the dam stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water utilization and environmental stewardship in the face of changing climate conditions.
Year Completed |
1914 |
Dam Length |
2715 |
Dam Height |
52 |
River Or Stream |
Broad |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
3550 |
Hydraulic Height |
45 |
Drainage Area |
4750 |
Nid Storage |
32000 |
Structural Height |
55 |
Outlet Gates |
Bascule - 10 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock |
Nid Height |
55 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Broad River At Alston
|
1790cfs |
Saluda River Below Lk Murray Dam Nr Columbia
|
790cfs |
Bush River Nr Prosperity
|
38cfs |
Saluda River Near Columbia
|
907cfs |
Tyger River Near Delta
|
375cfs |
Enoree River At Whitmire
|
207cfs |
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.
Parr Shoals Dam