Harold E Frick Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Harold E Frick Dam, located in Saluda, South Carolina, was completed in 1940 and serves as a vital recreational reservoir for the region.


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Summary

With a dam height of 23 feet and a length of 460 feet, the earth dam primarily functions to provide recreational opportunities for water enthusiasts. The dam holds a maximum storage capacity of 194 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 86 acre-feet, covering a surface area of 18 acres.

Despite its significant role in providing recreational activities, the dam's condition assessment is rated as poor, with a low hazard potential. The last inspection in October 2017 revealed the need for maintenance and possibly rehabilitation to ensure the safety and longevity of the structure. The dam falls under private ownership and is regulated by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC), with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place to oversee its operations.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Harold E Frick Dam presents an intriguing case study of the intersection between recreational use and dam safety. As efforts continue to maintain and improve the dam's condition, there is a need for ongoing monitoring and potential risk management measures to ensure the sustainability of this essential water resource in the region. With its historical significance and environmental impact, the dam serves as a focal point for discussions on balancing human enjoyment of water resources with the need for responsible stewardship and maintenance.

Year Completed

1940

Dam Length

460

Dam Height

23

River Or Stream

TR-CLOUDS CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

18

Nid Storage

194

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

23
       
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.