Harbison Structure 9 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Harbison Structure 9, located in Lexington, South Carolina, is a vital earth dam that serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction along the TR-Kinley Creek.


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Summary

Completed in 1983, this structure stands at a height of 32 feet and spans 425 feet in length, with a NID storage capacity of 360 acre-feet. Despite having a fair condition assessment in 2020, it poses a high hazard potential, making regular inspections essential to ensure its continued safety and effectiveness.

Owned by the local government, Harbison Structure 9 is regulated by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place. The dam's normal storage capacity of 77 acre-feet and surface area of 15 acres also support recreation activities in addition to flood risk reduction. Furthermore, the dam's stone core and soil foundation contribute to its structural integrity, emphasizing the importance of ongoing maintenance to mitigate any potential risks associated with its age and hazard potential.

With Joe Wilson (R) representing the area in Congress, stakeholders and enthusiasts interested in water resources and climate change in the region should closely monitor the condition and management of Harbison Structure 9. As a key component of the Savannah District's flood control infrastructure, this dam plays a crucial role in protecting the surrounding communities from potential flooding events. As efforts continue to ensure its safety and functionality, the collaboration between local and state agencies will be essential in safeguarding both the dam and the environment it serves.

Year Completed

1983

Dam Length

425

Dam Height

32

River Or Stream

TR-KINLEY CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

15

Nid Storage

360

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

32
       
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.