Little River Wcd Dam 1 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Little River WCD Dam 1, located in Laurens, South Carolina, was completed in 1988 and stands at a height of 27 feet with a length of 450 feet.
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Summary
Designed by USDA NRCS, this earth dam serves as a flood risk reduction structure along the TR-Little River. With a storage capacity of 68 acre-feet, the dam's primary purpose is flood risk reduction, making it a crucial asset for water resource management in the region.
Managed by a combination of local government and private entities, Little River WCD Dam 1 is regulated by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC). Despite being categorized as a low hazard potential structure with fair condition assessment, the dam is subject to regular inspections every 5 years to ensure its safety and reliability. Additionally, the dam features uncontrolled outlet gates and a controlled spillway, highlighting its importance in managing water flow and mitigating potential flood risks in the area.
In the event of an emergency, the dam's risk assessment is classified as very high, underscoring the need for proper risk management measures and emergency action planning. With its strategic location and design, Little River WCD Dam 1 plays a vital role in protecting the surrounding communities from potential flooding, showcasing the importance of sustainable water resource management in the face of changing climate conditions.
Year Completed |
1988 |
Dam Length |
450 |
Dam Height |
27 |
River Or Stream |
TR-LITTLE RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
4 |
Nid Storage |
68 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
27 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
South Rabon Creek Near Gray Court
|
17cfs |
Enoree River Near Woodruff
|
210cfs |
Saluda River Near Ware Shoals
|
503cfs |
Durbin Creek Above Fountain Inn
|
8cfs |
Reedy River Above Fork Shoals
|
116cfs |
Enoree River At Whitmire
|
308cfs |
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.
Little River Wcd Dam 1