Isabel Fanning Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 15, 2025

Isabel Fanning Dam, located in Chester, South Carolina, is a privately owned earth dam that was completed in 1969 for the primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

Standing at a height of 30 feet and with a length of 450 feet, this dam has a storage capacity of 144 acre-feet and a surface area of 12 acres. The dam is situated on the TR-Threemile Branch, within the jurisdiction of the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC).

Despite its low hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment is rated as poor, with the last inspection conducted in October 2017. The dam is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by the state, ensuring compliance with safety standards. While the dam does not have a spillway, it serves as a recreational spot for water resource and climate enthusiasts in the area, offering opportunities for outdoor activities.

As an essential infrastructure for the local community's recreational needs, Isabel Fanning Dam plays a vital role in providing leisure opportunities while also serving as a water resource management tool. With its historical significance and ongoing maintenance requirements, the dam serves as a reminder of the importance of sustainable water management practices in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1969

Dam Length

450

Dam Height

30

River Or Stream

TR-THREEMILE BRANCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

12

Nid Storage

144

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

30
       
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.