Lick Fork Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lick Fork Lake Dam, also known as Cheves Creek Farms Dam, is a Federal-owned structure located in Edgefield, South Carolina.


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Summary

Built in 1935, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 36 feet and spans a length of 235 feet. With a primary purpose of recreation, the dam boasts a storage capacity of 168 acre-feet and a surface area of 12 acres.

Managed by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (SC DHEC), Lick Fork Lake Dam is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by the state. Despite being classified as having low hazard potential, the dam is currently in fair condition based on a 2017 assessment. With a fairly regular inspection frequency of 5 years, the dam's emergency action plan status and risk management measures remain unspecified.

Situated along the Lick Fork river or stream, Lick Fork Lake Dam offers recreational opportunities amidst its picturesque surroundings. Climate and water resource enthusiasts can appreciate the historical significance and engineering marvel of this dam as they explore its features and learn about its maintenance and safety protocols.

Year Completed

1935

Dam Length

235

Dam Height

36

River Or Stream

LICK FORK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

12

Nid Storage

168

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

36
       
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.