Lake Caire Yelleau Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lake Caire Yelleau Dam, located in Dorchester, South Carolina, was completed in 1977 and serves as a recreational spot for water resource and climate enthusiasts.


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Summary

This privately owned earth dam stands at 15 feet high and spans 440 feet in length, creating a picturesque 8-acre surface area that offers various outdoor activities. The dam holds a storage capacity of 52 acre-feet, with normal storage levels reaching 30 acre-feet.

Managed by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control, the dam has a fair condition assessment and a high hazard potential. Regular inspections are conducted to ensure public safety, with the last assessment completed in February 2021. Despite its age, the dam continues to provide a popular destination for locals and visitors alike, offering a tranquil setting for relaxation and recreation along TR-NEGRO BRANCH river.

While the dam's spillway type and outlet gates are unspecified, its design and construction have stood the test of time, enhancing the surrounding landscape and providing a haven for wildlife and outdoor enthusiasts. With its rich history and scenic beauty, Lake Caire Yelleau Dam remains a valuable asset for the community, inviting exploration and appreciation of South Carolina's water resources.

Year Completed

1977

Dam Length

440

Dam Height

15

River Or Stream

TR-NEGRO BRANCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

8

Nid Storage

52

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

15
       
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.