Garren Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Garren Lake Dam, located in Pickens, South Carolina, was completed in 1956 and stands at a height of 34 feet with a length of 575 feet.


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Summary

The dam, primarily designed for recreation, holds a storage capacity of 192 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 160 acre-feet. Situated on the TR-SOUTH SALUDA RIVER, the dam serves as a critical structure in the area, providing essential recreational opportunities for locals and visitors alike.

Managed by the state regulatory agency SC DHEC, Garren Lake Dam has been deemed to have a low hazard potential and fair condition as of the last inspection in June 2017. The dam's emergency action plan status, risk assessment, and inundation map preparedness are currently unknown, suggesting a potential area for improvement in terms of emergency preparedness. Despite these considerations, the dam continues to play a vital role in water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the region.

With its picturesque setting and significant impact on the surrounding community, Garren Lake Dam stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water resource management and climate adaptation strategies. As enthusiasts in the field, it is essential to monitor and advocate for the upkeep and improvement of critical infrastructure like Garren Lake Dam to ensure the safety and well-being of all those who benefit from its presence.

Year Completed

1956

Dam Length

575

Dam Height

34

River Or Stream

TR-SOUTH SALUDA RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

12

Nid Storage

192

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

34
       
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.