Cornwell Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 16, 2025
Cornwell Dam, located in Lancaster, South Carolina, is a privately owned structure built in 1972 primarily for recreational purposes along the TR-SIXMILE CREEK.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
With a height of 20 feet and a length of 320 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 51 acre-feet and a surface area of 6 acres. Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment in 2017 was marked as poor, highlighting the need for maintenance and upgrades to ensure its safety and longevity.
The dam's regulatory oversight falls under the jurisdiction of the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC), with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement all in place. The structure's risk assessment is moderate, with a rating of 3 on the scale, indicating a need for risk management measures to address any potential safety concerns. The last inspection in 2017 revealed issues with the dam's condition, emphasizing the importance of regular assessments and maintenance to mitigate risks and ensure the safety of the surrounding community and environment.
As a key feature in the area's water resource and climate landscape, Cornwell Dam provides not only recreational opportunities but also serves as a reminder of the importance of proper dam management and maintenance. With its location in a scenic natural setting and the potential risks associated with its condition, the dam stands as a symbol of the delicate balance between human development and environmental stewardship in the face of changing climate conditions.
Year Completed |
1972 |
Dam Length |
320 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
TR-SIXMILE CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
6 |
Nid Storage |
51 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
20 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Sign Language
|
||
Andrew Jackson State Park
|
||
Cane Creek Park
|
Cornwell Dam
Catawba Nation Greenway Trail York County