Lois Lockhart Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Lois Lockhart Dam, located in Aiken, South Carolina, is a privately owned structure built in 1974 with a primary purpose of irrigation.


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Summary

The dam, standing at a height of 25 feet and a length of 385 feet, holds a maximum storage capacity of 80 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 25 acres. Situated on Gully Creek, it serves as a vital resource for water supply for agricultural needs in the region.

Despite its low hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment in 2017 was reported as poor, highlighting the need for maintenance and upkeep. The dam is regulated by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control, with state oversight in permitting, inspection, and enforcement. While the dam also serves recreational purposes, its structural integrity and compliance with safety guidelines are crucial in ensuring the safety of surrounding communities and the sustainability of water resources in the area.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Lois Lockhart Dam represents a unique Earth-type structure with a historical significance in water management and irrigation. As efforts continue to maintain and improve its condition, the dam serves as a reminder of the importance of sustainable water infrastructure and the critical role it plays in supporting agricultural activities and local ecosystems.

Year Completed

1974

Dam Length

385

Dam Height

25

River Or Stream

GULLY CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

25

Nid Storage

80

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

25
       
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.