Gaddy Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 15, 2025

Gaddy Dam, located in Fairfield County, South Carolina, is a privately owned earth dam completed in 1974 for the primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

With a height of 27 feet and a length of 350 feet, the dam holds a storage capacity of 100 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 10 acres. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam is currently in poor condition as of the last assessment in 2017.

Situated on the TR-West Fork Little River, Gaddy Dam is regulated by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) and undergoes regular state inspections and enforcement. The dam serves as a popular recreational spot in the area, attracting water resource and climate enthusiasts alike. Its picturesque surroundings and serene ambiance make it a sought-after destination for outdoor activities and nature lovers.

Although facing maintenance challenges, Gaddy Dam remains a vital water resource infrastructure for the local community and provides a tranquil setting for recreational enjoyment. As efforts to improve its condition continue, the dam stands as a symbol of the intersection between water management, climate resilience, and the preservation of natural landscapes in South Carolina.

Year Completed

1974

Dam Length

350

Dam Height

27

River Or Stream

TR-WEST FORK LITTLE RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

10

Nid Storage

100

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

27
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.