Cane Creek Wcd Dam 18a Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 14, 2025

Cane Creek WCD Dam 18a, located in Lancaster, South Carolina, is a vital structure designed by the USDA NRCS to mitigate flood risk along the Gills Creek.


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Summary

Completed in 1978, this earth-type dam stands at a height of 51 feet and has a length of 2220 feet, providing storage capacity of 4731 acre-feet. Owned by the local government, this dam serves as a crucial flood risk reduction asset in the region.

With a hazard potential rated as high and a fair condition assessment, Cane Creek WCD Dam 18a is regularly inspected by the SC DHEC to ensure its structural integrity and safety. The dam's purpose extends beyond flood risk reduction to include recreational opportunities, showcasing its multi-functional role in the community. Despite its moderate risk assessment, the dam remains a key asset in managing water resources and protecting the surrounding area from potential inundation events.

Managed by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, Cane Creek WCD Dam 18a is a testament to the collaborative efforts between local government and federal agencies in safeguarding water resources. With its strategic location and design, this dam continues to play a crucial role in flood risk management and water conservation efforts in Lancaster, South Carolina.

Year Completed

1978

Dam Length

2220

Dam Height

51

River Or Stream

GILLS CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

115

Nid Storage

4731

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

51
       
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.