White Pines Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

White Pines Lake Dam, also known as the J Carlisle Oxner Dam, is a state-owned structure located in Union, South Carolina.


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Summary

Completed in 1954, this earth dam stands at 16 feet high and spans 300 feet in length, creating a reservoir with a maximum storage capacity of 94 acre-feet. The primary purpose of the dam is to serve as a fish and wildlife pond, providing recreational opportunities for residents and visitors alike.

Situated on the TR-Spear Creek, White Pines Lake Dam is regulated by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (SC DHEC) and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity. The dam has a fair condition assessment, with a significant hazard potential due to its proximity to populated areas. Despite this, the dam has a well-maintained emergency action plan (EAP) and meets regulatory guidelines for safety measures.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, White Pines Lake Dam offers a fascinating look into the management of a vital water infrastructure. With its connection to fish and wildlife conservation, along with its recreational value, the dam serves as both a functional resource and a scenic destination in the heart of South Carolina.

Year Completed

1954

Dam Length

300

Dam Height

16

River Or Stream

TR-SPEAR CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

10

Nid Storage

94

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

16
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.