Little River Wcd Dam 5a Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Little River WCD Dam 5a, located in Laurens, South Carolina, is a flood risk reduction structure designed by USDA NRCS and completed in 1990.


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Summary

This earth dam stands at a height of 28 feet and spans 58 feet in length, with a maximum storage capacity of 91 acre-feet. The dam primarily serves to mitigate flood risks in the area and is regulated by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC).

With a low hazard potential and fair condition assessment as of the last inspection in September 2017, Little River WCD Dam 5a is deemed to pose a very high risk, indicating the importance of ongoing risk management measures. The dam features an uncontrolled outlet gate and a controlled spillway type, further enhancing its flood risk reduction capabilities. Despite its modest size, this dam plays a crucial role in safeguarding the surrounding community from potential inundation events, making it a valuable asset for water resource and climate enthusiasts in the region.

Overall, Little River WCD Dam 5a stands as a testament to the collaborative efforts between local government and private entities in addressing flood risks and promoting water resource management in the area. As climate change continues to impact weather patterns and water systems, structures like this dam serve as critical components in enhancing resilience and protecting communities from the adverse consequences of extreme weather events.

Year Completed

1990

Dam Length

58

Dam Height

28

River Or Stream

TR-LITTLE RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

6

Nid Storage

91

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

28
       
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.