Lake Ashley Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 14, 2025
Lake Ashley Dam, located in Richland, South Carolina, is a privately owned structure primarily used for recreational purposes.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Built in 1978 by the USDA NRCS, the earth dam stands at a height of 26 feet and has a length of 375 feet, creating a reservoir with a storage capacity of 164 acre-feet. The dam is situated on Boney Creek and is regulated by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control.
Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, Lake Ashley Dam received a fair condition assessment during its last inspection in March 2017. The dam features uncontrolled spillways and outlet gates, with no associated locks. The risk assessment for the dam is moderate, emphasizing the importance of ongoing maintenance and monitoring to ensure the safety and integrity of the structure.
Enthusiasts of water resources and climate management will find Lake Ashley Dam an intriguing subject for study and discussion. Its design, construction, and regulatory oversight provide insight into the complexities of managing water resources for recreational purposes while ensuring public safety. As climate change continues to impact water systems, understanding the condition and risk factors associated with dams like Lake Ashley Dam becomes increasingly important for sustainable water management practices.
Year Completed |
1978 |
Dam Length |
375 |
Dam Height |
26 |
River Or Stream |
BONEY CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
13 |
Nid Storage |
164 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
26 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Smith Branch At North Main St At Columbia
|
3cfs |
Saluda River Near Columbia
|
907cfs |
Gills Creek At Columbia
|
37cfs |
Congaree River At Columbia
|
3140cfs |
Saluda River Below Lk Murray Dam Nr Columbia
|
775cfs |
Wateree River Nr. Camden
|
1570cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Lake Ashley Dam