Boice Porth Dam, located in Lexington, South Carolina, is a privately owned structure primarily used for irrigation purposes.
Wind
Humidity
Completed in 1953, this earth dam stands at a height of 14 feet and spans a length of 515 feet, with a storage capacity of 58 acre-feet. It is situated on the Long Branch river and falls under the jurisdiction of the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (SC DHEC).
Despite its vital role in supporting agricultural activities in the region, Boice Porth Dam has been flagged for its poor condition assessment and high hazard potential. The last inspection conducted in April 2017 revealed concerning findings, prompting a biennial inspection frequency to monitor its structural integrity. With no emergency action plan in place and limited risk management measures identified, there is a pressing need to address the dam's vulnerabilities and ensure the safety of downstream communities in case of a potential failure.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is crucial to recognize the significance of maintaining and upgrading aging infrastructure like Boice Porth Dam to adapt to changing environmental conditions and safeguard water resources for future generations. Collaborative efforts between private owners, regulatory agencies, and local stakeholders are imperative to address the dam's deficiencies, mitigate risks, and enhance resilience in the face of climate uncertainties.
Year Completed |
1953 |
Dam Length |
515 |
Dam Height |
14 |
River Or Stream |
LONG BRANCH |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
8.8 |
Nid Storage |
58 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
14 |
Saluda River Below Lk Murray Dam Nr Columbia
|
601cfs |
Saluda River Near Columbia
|
780cfs |
Congaree River At Columbia
|
2800cfs |
Smith Branch At North Main St At Columbia
|
9cfs |
Broad River At Alston
|
1770cfs |
Gills Creek At Columbia
|
68cfs |