Crenshaw Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 15, 2025

Crenshaw Dam, located in Lancaster, South Carolina, stands as a testament to the importance of water resource management and climate resilience.


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Summary

Built in 1985 for recreational purposes, this private-owned Earth dam spans 900 feet in length and reaches a height of 21 feet, with a storage capacity of 258 acre-feet. The dam's primary purpose is to provide recreational opportunities for the surrounding community, offering a surface area of 22.7 acres for activities such as boating, fishing, and wildlife observation along the CAUSAR BRANCH river.

Despite its low hazard potential, Crenshaw Dam faces challenges in terms of its structural integrity, as it received a poor condition assessment during its last inspection in September 2017. The dam's risk assessment is rated as moderate, emphasizing the need for ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure its long-term stability. While the dam is state-regulated and inspected regularly, efforts to improve its condition and reduce risks associated with its operation are crucial for safeguarding both public safety and the surrounding environment.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, the data on Crenshaw Dam highlights the complexities of managing and maintaining essential infrastructure in the face of changing environmental conditions. By understanding the challenges and opportunities presented by structures like Crenshaw Dam, we can work towards innovative solutions that promote sustainable water management practices and enhance the resilience of our communities in the face of a changing climate.

Year Completed

1985

Dam Length

900

Dam Height

21

River Or Stream

CAUSAR BRANCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

22.7

Nid Storage

258

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

21
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

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.