Cooper Dev - North Dike Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 15, 2025

Cooper Dev - North Dike, also known as Pinopolis North Dike, is a key flood risk reduction structure in South Carolina, owned by the state and managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC).


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Summary

Built in 1942 by Harza Engineering Company, this earth dam stands at a height of 15 feet and serves multiple purposes including flood risk reduction, hydroelectric power generation, navigation, recreation, and water supply. With a storage capacity of 1,110,000 acre-feet and a surface area of 60,000 acres, Cooper Dev - North Dike plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region.

Located in Berkeley County, South Carolina, near the city of Russelville, Cooper Dev - North Dike spans over 33,264 feet along the Cooper River. Despite its high hazard potential, the condition assessment for this structure is currently not available, emphasizing the importance of regular inspections and risk management measures. It is interesting to note that the dam is not regulated by the state and does not fall under state jurisdiction, but is inspected by FERC to ensure its operational safety and integrity. The surrounding area has a history of flooding, making Cooper Dev - North Dike a vital asset for mitigating flood risks and ensuring water resource sustainability in the region.

As a significant component of the water infrastructure in the Charleston District, Cooper Dev - North Dike has been designed to withstand high hydraulic pressures with a spillway width of None. With its rich history dating back to 1942 and a storage capacity of 1,110,000 acre-feet, this earth dam continues to be a critical asset for flood risk reduction and water management in the area. Its strategic location along the Cooper River highlights the importance of maintaining and monitoring this structure to ensure the safety and security of the surrounding communities and water resources.

Year Completed

1942

Dam Length

33264

Dam Height

15

River Or Stream

Cooper

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

60000

Hydraulic Height

14

Nid Storage

1110000

Structural Height

14

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

15
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.