Kershaw City Res Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Kershaw City Reservoir Dam, located in Lancaster, South Carolina, is a crucial water supply infrastructure owned by the local government.


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Summary

Built in 1960, this earth dam stands at 19 feet high and stretches 515 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 116 acre-feet. The primary purpose of this dam is to provide water supply to the surrounding area, specifically utilizing Hanging Rock Creek as its water source.

Despite its important role in water resource management, Kershaw City Reservoir Dam is currently rated as having a poor condition assessment, with a low hazard potential. Inspected in October 2017, the dam is deemed to have a very high risk level, highlighting the need for risk management measures to be implemented. With a controlled spillway type and a surface area of 17 acres, this dam serves as a vital structure in maintaining water supply stability in the region.

As a site regulated by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (SC DHEC), Kershaw City Reservoir Dam undergoes regular inspections and permitting processes to ensure its safety and functionality. With its location at the intersection of water resource management and climate resilience, this dam serves as a focal point for enthusiasts looking to understand the intricacies of maintaining essential water infrastructure in the face of changing environmental conditions.

Year Completed

1960

Dam Length

515

Dam Height

19

River Or Stream

HANGING ROCK CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

17

Nid Storage

116

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

19
       
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.