Fishing Creek Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 15, 2025
Fishing Creek is a captivating hydroelectric dam located in Lancaster, South Carolina, along the Catawba River.
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Summary
Built in 1916 by Southern Power Company, this gravity-type dam stands at a height of 105 feet and has a length of 1840 feet. With a maximum storage capacity of 60,000 acre-feet and a surface area of 3370 acres, Fishing Creek plays a crucial role in providing hydroelectric power to the region.
Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Fishing Creek has a controlled spillway with a width of 1420 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 880,000 cubic feet per second. Despite its high hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment is currently not available. The Emergency Action Plan for Fishing Creek was last revised in December 2020, emphasizing the importance of preparedness and risk management for this vital water resource.
Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will appreciate the historical significance and engineering marvel of Fishing Creek. As a key player in providing clean energy and regulating water flow along the Catawba River, this dam serves as a symbol of sustainable infrastructure in South Carolina. Its location in Great Falls, SC, amidst scenic surroundings, makes Fishing Creek a must-visit destination for those interested in the intersection of water management, energy production, and environmental conservation.
Year Completed |
1916 |
Dam Length |
1840 |
Dam Height |
105 |
River Or Stream |
Catawba River |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
3370 |
Drainage Area |
3810 |
Nid Storage |
60000 |
Structural Height |
105 |
Outlet Gates |
Vertical Lift - 22 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock |
Nid Height |
105 |
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.
Fishing Creek