Tony Stiwinter Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Tony Stiwinter Dam, located in Pickens, South Carolina, is a privately-owned earth dam completed in 1989 primarily for recreational purposes.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Standing at a height of 25 feet and stretching 275 feet in length, this dam boasts a storage capacity of 5 acre-feet and a surface area of 2 acres. Despite its modest size, the dam is regulated by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) and is subject to regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity.

With a hazard potential classified as high and a fair condition assessment as of April 2020, Tony Stiwinter Dam remains an important structure in the region's water resource management. Its location along the TR-Raven Branch river stream contributes to its significance, as it plays a crucial role in flood control and water supply management. The dam's emergency action plan was last revised in May 2017, highlighting the importance of preparedness in the face of potential risks associated with dam operations.

In the hands of private owners, Tony Stiwinter Dam serves as a vital recreational spot while also fulfilling essential water management functions. Its association with the Savannah District of the US Army Corps of Engineers underscores the collaborative efforts involved in maintaining the dam's safety and functionality. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, this dam presents a unique case study in balancing recreational benefits with the challenges of dam management in a changing climate landscape.

Year Completed

1989

Dam Length

275

Dam Height

25

River Or Stream

TR-RAVEN BRANCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

2

Nid Storage

5

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

25
       
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.