Rocky Creek Wcd Dam 1 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 14, 2025

Rocky Creek WCD Dam 1, located in Chester, South Carolina, serves as a vital flood risk reduction structure along Beaverdam Creek.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

This earth dam, with a height of 39 feet and a length of 910 feet, was completed in 1974 by the USDA NRCS. With a storage capacity of 2,100 acre-feet and a normal storage of 220 acre-feet, the dam plays a key role in managing water flow and mitigating flood risks in the area.

Managed by the local government and designated as a state-regulated structure by SC DHEC, Rocky Creek WCD Dam 1 undergoes regular inspections and enforcement to ensure its structural integrity and functionality. Rated as having a low hazard potential and fair condition assessment, the dam is equipped with uncontrolled spillways and outlets to manage water levels during periods of heavy rainfall. Despite its moderate risk rating, the dam continues to effectively serve its primary purpose of flood risk reduction, safeguarding the surrounding community and its water resources.

As a noteworthy feature in the Charleston District of South Carolina, Rocky Creek WCD Dam 1 stands as a testament to the collaborative efforts between local government and federal agencies in ensuring the safety and resilience of water infrastructure. With its modest surface area of 18 acres and stone core foundation, the dam exemplifies the importance of proactive risk management and maintenance practices in safeguarding water resources and climate resilience in the region.

Year Completed

1974

Dam Length

910

Dam Height

39

River Or Stream

BEAVERDAM CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

18

Nid Storage

2100

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

39
       
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.