Upper Quail Hollow Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Upper Quail Hollow Dam, located in Lexington, South Carolina, is a privately owned structure primarily used for recreation purposes.
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Summary
Completed in 1971, this earth dam stands at a height of 37 feet and spans 480 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 67 acre-feet. The dam overlooks TR-SENN BRANCH and is regulated by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (SC DHEC), ensuring that it meets state inspection and enforcement standards.
Despite being classified as having a high hazard potential, Upper Quail Hollow Dam is currently in fair condition based on the last assessment conducted in April 2017. The dam has a spillway width of 0 feet and a surface area of 5 acres, making it a notable feature within the region. In the event of an emergency, the dam's Emergency Action Plan (EAP) status and compliance with guidelines are currently unspecified, highlighting the need for continued monitoring and risk management measures.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Upper Quail Hollow Dam presents an intriguing case study of a privately owned recreational structure with important implications for public safety and environmental stewardship. As the dam continues to be regulated by state authorities and undergo regular inspections, its role in water management and flood control within the Savannah District remains a key aspect of its operation. With its historical significance dating back to the early 1970s, Upper Quail Hollow Dam serves as a vital component of the local landscape, showcasing the intersection of human engineering and natural resources in South Carolina.
Year Completed |
1971 |
Dam Length |
480 |
Dam Height |
37 |
River Or Stream |
TR-SENN BRANCH |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
5 |
Nid Storage |
67 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
37 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Saluda River Near Columbia
|
907cfs |
Congaree River At Columbia
|
3010cfs |
Smith Branch At North Main St At Columbia
|
3cfs |
Saluda River Below Lk Murray Dam Nr Columbia
|
790cfs |
Gills Creek At Columbia
|
37cfs |
Broad River At Alston
|
1880cfs |
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.
Upper Quail Hollow Dam