Chester Res Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 14, 2025

Chester Res Dam, also known as Lake McGregor Dam, is a private-owned structure located in Chester, South Carolina.


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Summary

Completed in 1928, this earth-type dam stands at a height of 40 feet and stretches 600 feet in length, creating a reservoir with a maximum storage capacity of 4,130 acre-feet. The primary purpose of the dam is for recreation, offering visitors a serene environment for activities such as fishing, boating, and picnicking.

Managed by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control, Chester Res Dam is regulated, inspected, and enforced by the state to ensure its safety and compliance with standards. Despite its fair condition assessment and high hazard potential, the dam has a history of providing a valuable water resource for the community, with a normal storage capacity of 2,130 acre-feet and a surface area of 111 acres. The dam sits on the Sandy River and is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers in the region.

With its rich history, scenic surroundings, and recreational offerings, Chester Res Dam serves as a vital water resource and a beloved destination for locals and visitors alike. The dam's role in providing a picturesque backdrop for outdoor activities, as well as its adherence to state regulations and inspections, highlight its importance in both water management and community engagement. As a private-owned structure, Chester Res Dam stands as a testament to the harmonious coexistence of human intervention and natural landscapes in the realm of water resource management and climate conservation.

Year Completed

1928

Dam Length

600

Dam Height

40

River Or Stream

SANDY RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

111

Nid Storage

4130

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

40
       
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.