Ophelias Dam, also known as Edward Wilcox Dam, stands as a historic Earth-type structure completed in 1800 in Union, South Carolina.
Wind
Humidity
With a height of 48 feet and a length of 160 feet, this private-owned dam primarily serves recreational purposes along the TR-BROAD RIVER. While it boasts a storage capacity of 50 acre-feet, the dam's normal storage level is at 16 acre-feet, covering a surface area of 2 acres.
Despite its low hazard potential, Ophelias Dam has been rated as having a poor condition as of the last inspection in September 2017. Despite being regulated and permitted by the state of South Carolina, the dam's maintenance and upkeep seem to have fallen behind, raising concerns about its long-term structural integrity. With the dam being privately owned, it is crucial for stakeholders to prioritize necessary repairs and improvements to ensure the safety of the surrounding community and the sustainability of the dam for future recreational use. The involvement of state regulatory agencies such as SC DHEC will be essential in overseeing these efforts and ensuring compliance with safety standards.
Year Completed |
1800 |
Dam Length |
160 |
Dam Height |
48 |
River Or Stream |
TR-BROAD RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
2 |
Nid Storage |
50 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
48 |
Broad River Near Carlisle
|
2020cfs |
Tyger River Near Delta
|
601cfs |
Enoree River At Whitmire
|
484cfs |
Broad River Below Cherokee Falls
|
883cfs |
Wildcat Creek Below Rock Hill
|
5cfs |
Broad River At Alston
|
1920cfs |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Woods Ferry
|
||
Woods Ferry Recreation Area
|
||
Poulous Loop Group Camp
|
||
Chester State Park
|