Mount Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Mclean Pond Dam Mays Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Mount Lake Dam, located in Chesterfield, South Carolina, is a state-owned structure on Mount Prong Creek that serves primarily for recreational purposes.
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Summary
Built in 1938, this earthen dam stands at a height of 12 feet and spans 300 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 71 acre-feet. Despite its age, the dam is considered to have a low hazard potential and is in fair condition as of the last inspection in October 2017.
Managed by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control, Mount Lake Dam undergoes regular state inspection, permitting, and enforcement to ensure its safety and compliance with regulations. Its proximity to the Wilmington District of the US Army Corps of Engineers adds another layer of oversight and monitoring. The dam's emergency action plan status and risk management measures are currently unlisted, emphasizing the importance of ongoing assessment and preparedness in the face of changing climate conditions.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Mount Lake Dam presents a fascinating case study in the intersection of infrastructure, environmental regulations, and recreational land use. Its historical significance, design features, and maintenance practices offer valuable insights into the resilience of dams in the face of evolving challenges such as extreme weather events and aging infrastructure. As discussions around water management and climate adaptation continue to evolve, Mount Lake Dam stands as a symbol of the ongoing efforts to balance human needs with environmental stewardship in a changing world.
Year Completed |
1938 |
Dam Length |
300 |
Dam Height |
12 |
River Or Stream |
MOUNT PRONG CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
9 |
Nid Storage |
71 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
12 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Black Creek Near Mcbee
|
108cfs |
Black Creek Near Hartsville
|
121cfs |
Pee Dee River Nr Bennettsville
|
2460cfs |
Lynches River Near Bishopville
|
443cfs |
Pee Dee R Nr Rockingham
|
1830cfs |
Black Creek Near Quinby
|
350cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Mount Lake Dam