Calhoun Lakes Dam 1 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Calhoun Lakes Dam 1, located in Spartanburg, South Carolina, is a privately-owned earth dam that was completed in 1968 for the primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

Standing at a height of 15 feet and a length of 301 feet, this dam creates a reservoir with a storage capacity of 59 acre-feet and a surface area of 6 acres. The dam is situated on TR-Lawsons Fork Creek and is regulated by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC).

Despite being classified as a low hazard potential structure, Calhoun Lakes Dam 1 has a poor condition assessment as of its last inspection in June 2017. The dam is in need of maintenance and repairs to ensure its safety and functionality. The risk assessment for this dam is moderate, indicating that there are potential risks that need to be addressed. While the dam has not been modified in recent years, it is crucial for the owners to implement proper risk management measures and regularly inspect and maintain the structure to prevent any potential failures or hazards.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Calhoun Lakes Dam 1 presents an opportunity to explore the intersection of human-made structures and natural ecosystems. Understanding the importance of proper dam maintenance and risk management is essential in ensuring the safety of surrounding communities and wildlife. With its location on TR-Lawsons Fork Creek, this dam serves as a recreational resource while also highlighting the need for responsible stewardship of water resources in South Carolina.

Year Completed

1968

Dam Length

301

Dam Height

15

River Or Stream

TR-LAWSONS FORK CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

6

Nid Storage

59

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

15
       
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.