Lake Susan Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 7, 2025

Lake Susan Dam, also known as Lake Swan, is a privately owned earth dam in Chesterfield, South Carolina, with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

Built in 1968 by the USDA NRCS, this dam stands at a height of 24 feet and spans 336 feet in length. It has a storage capacity of 121 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 8 acres. The dam is regulated by the SC DHEC and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity.

Despite being classified as having a high hazard potential, Lake Susan Dam is currently assessed to be in fair condition, with a moderate risk level. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, with the last inspection conducted in January 2019. While the dam meets regulatory guidelines, there is room for improvement in terms of emergency action preparedness and risk management measures. With its picturesque location along TR-REEDYS BRANCH, Lake Susan Dam serves as a vital water resource for the region and a popular recreational spot for visitors to enjoy.

Year Completed

1968

Dam Length

336

Dam Height

24

River Or Stream

TR-REEDYS BRANCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

8

Nid Storage

121

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

24
       
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.