Small Upper Mtn Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 15, 2025

Small Upper Mtn Lake, located in Chester, South Carolina, is a picturesque state-owned reservoir primarily used for recreation.


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Summary

The earth dam, constructed in 1945, stands at a height of 24 feet and spans 515 feet in length, creating a storage capacity of 144 acre-feet. Despite its age, the dam has a high hazard potential and poor condition assessment, as of the last inspection in August 2019. The lake covers 9.3 surface acres and is fed by the TR-BEAR BRANCH river or stream.

While Small Upper Mtn Lake offers opportunities for leisure activities such as fishing and boating, its maintenance and safety are of concern due to its aging infrastructure and poor condition. The state regulatory agency, SC DHEC, oversees the permitting, inspection, and enforcement of the dam to ensure public safety. With a history of modifications dating back to its completion, the reservoir's emergency action plan and risk assessment are areas that require attention to address potential hazards and mitigate risks associated with its use.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in Small Upper Mtn Lake can appreciate its natural beauty and recreational value, while also recognizing the importance of monitoring and maintaining its dam structure to ensure the safety of the surrounding community. As efforts continue to assess and address the risks associated with the reservoir, stakeholders and regulatory agencies play a vital role in safeguarding this resource for future generations to enjoy.

Year Completed

1945

Dam Length

515

Dam Height

24

River Or Stream

TR-BEAR BRANCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

9.3

Nid Storage

144

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

24
       
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.