Lake Ashley Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 15, 2025

Lake Ashley Dam, located in Chester, South Carolina, was completed in 1945 and stands at a height of 28 feet, with a length of 425 feet.


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Summary

This earth dam, primarily used for recreation, has a storage capacity of 850 acre-feet and a surface area of 57.9 acres. The dam, situated on Bear Branch, is owned privately but regulated by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC), ensuring state oversight and inspection to maintain its integrity.

Despite its fair condition assessment, Lake Ashley Dam presents a high hazard potential, underscoring the importance of regular inspections and emergency preparedness. The dam's last inspection took place in February 2020, with an inspection frequency of every two years. While no spillway type is specified, the dam's design includes stone core types supported by rock and soil foundations. The dam serves not only as a recreational asset but also holds crucial water resources, highlighting the intersection of environmental conservation and public safety.

Lake Ashley Dam's presence in the Charleston District underscores its significance in water resource management in South Carolina. With its location offering opportunities for outdoor activities and its vital role in water storage, the dam stands as a testament to the delicate balance between human recreation and environmental stewardship. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the maintenance and regulation of dams like Lake Ashley become increasingly crucial in ensuring sustainable water management for future generations.

Year Completed

1945

Dam Length

425

Dam Height

28

River Or Stream

BEAR BRANCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

57.9

Nid Storage

850

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

28
       
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.