Cooper Dev - West Dike Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Cooper Dev - West Dike, also known as Pinopolis West Dike, is a state-owned structure in South Carolina that plays a crucial role in flood risk reduction along the Cooper River.


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Summary

Built in 1942 by Harza Engineering Company, this earth dam stands at a height of 25 feet and spans over 51,216 feet in length. With a primary purpose of flood risk reduction, it also serves for hydroelectric power generation, navigation, recreation, and water supply, showcasing its multifaceted importance in water resource management.

Located in Moncks Corner, Berkeley County, this high-hazard potential dam holds a storage capacity of 1.1 million acre-feet, covering a surface area of 60,000 acres. Despite not being regulated by the state, it falls under the jurisdiction of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission for inspection and operation. The dam's emergency action plan was last revised in January 2021, indicating a proactive approach to risk management in case of potential inundation events. Overall, Cooper Dev - West Dike stands as a critical infrastructure for water resource and climate enthusiasts to study and appreciate its impact on the surrounding environment.

As a significant landmark in the Charleston District, Cooper Dev - West Dike serves as a testament to the collaborative efforts between state and federal agencies in ensuring the safety and sustainability of water resources in the region. With its rich history dating back to the early 20th century, this dam continues to fulfill its role in protecting communities from flooding while providing essential services for various sectors. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, exploring the engineering marvel and ecological impact of Cooper Dev - West Dike offers a fascinating insight into the interconnectedness of water management and environmental stewardship.

Year Completed

1942

Dam Length

51216

Dam Height

25

River Or Stream

Cooper

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

60000

Hydraulic Height

24

Nid Storage

1110000

Structural Height

24

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

25
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No 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

High
Dams 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.