C. S. Lake 16 Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

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Summary

S. Lake 16 Dam, located in Chesterfield, South Carolina, is a federal-owned structure with a primary purpose of serving as a Fish and Wildlife Pond. Built in 1938, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 22 feet and stretches 365 feet in length. With a storage capacity of 93 acre-feet, this dam primarily regulates the flow of the LIGHTWOOD LOG BRANCH river.

Despite its low hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment is poor, indicating a need for maintenance and upkeep. The last inspection in 2015 revealed concerning structural issues that highlight the importance of regular monitoring and maintenance. Additionally, the dam presents a very high risk due to its condition and lack of emergency preparedness measures.

Given the critical role of the C. S. Lake 16 Dam in managing water resources for fish and wildlife, it is imperative for federal agencies to prioritize its maintenance and ensure that necessary risk management measures are in place. With its significant impact on the surrounding ecosystem, the dam's upkeep is crucial for preserving the delicate balance of the area's natural environment and safeguarding against potential risks posed by its deteriorating condition.

Year Completed

1938

Dam Length

365

Dam Height

22

River Or Stream

LIGHTWOOD LOG BRANCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

4

Hydraulic Height

22

Drainage Area

1.1

Nid Storage

93

Structural Height

22

Outlet Gates

Other Controlled

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

22
       
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.