Parkins Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Parkins Lake Dam, located in Greenville, South Carolina, is a privately owned structure regulating the flow of the TR-REEDY RIVER.


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Summary

Completed in 1953, this Earth-type dam stands at 45 feet high and spans 440 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 257 acre-feet. The dam primarily serves a recreational purpose, providing a serene environment for visitors to enjoy water-based activities on the lake it creates.

Despite its fair condition assessment and high hazard potential, Parkins Lake Dam is regulated by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (SC DHEC), which ensures regular inspections, permitting, and enforcement to maintain its safety. The dam's emergency action plan (EAP) was last revised in 2015, with a biennial inspection frequency to monitor any potential risks. With its picturesque surroundings and vital role in managing water resources, Parkins Lake Dam is a significant feature in the region, attracting both visitors and climate enthusiasts alike.

As a key structure in the region's water management system, Parkins Lake Dam plays a crucial role in providing recreational opportunities while safeguarding against potential hazards. Alongside its earth core and stone foundation, the dam's storage capacity, surface area, and drainage area contribute to its importance in the area's water resource management. With ongoing regulatory oversight and a focus on safety, this dam continues to be a focal point for both environmental enthusiasts and those seeking leisure activities in a natural setting.

Year Completed

1953

Dam Length

440

Dam Height

45

River Or Stream

TR-REEDY RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

14

Nid Storage

257

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

45
       
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.