Lake Caldwell Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Lake Caldwell Dam, nestled in Greenville, South Carolina, is a private dam primarily designed for recreation and managed by the USDA NRCS.


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Summary

Completed in 1968, this earth dam stands at a height of 36 feet, creating a reservoir with a storage capacity of 94 acre-feet. The dam overlooks the scenic Calahan Branch, offering a serene backdrop for outdoor enthusiasts and water resource aficionados.

Despite its fair condition assessment and high hazard potential, Lake Caldwell Dam is inspected every two years to ensure public safety. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, with a risk assessment rating of moderate. Managed by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control, the dam is subject to state regulation, permitting, inspection, and enforcement, guaranteeing its compliance with safety standards and regulations. With its stone core and soil foundation, Lake Caldwell Dam serves as a vital recreational asset in the region, attracting visitors with its picturesque surroundings and water-based activities.

Lake Caldwell Dam's structural integrity and risk management measures contribute to its status as a popular outdoor destination in Greenville. The dam's 230-foot length and 4-acre surface area provide ample space for leisure activities, while its proximity to the Calahan Branch adds a natural charm to the recreational experience. With a dedicated focus on safety and compliance, Lake Caldwell Dam exemplifies responsible stewardship of water resources and climate resilience, making it a must-visit location for nature enthusiasts and environmental advocates alike.

Year Completed

1968

Dam Length

230

Dam Height

36

River Or Stream

CALAHAN BRANCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

4

Nid Storage

94

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

36
       
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.