Morgan Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Morgan Dam, located in Spartanburg, South Carolina, is a privately owned earth dam that was completed in 1989 for the primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

The dam stands at a height of 19 feet and has a length of 350 feet, creating a reservoir with a maximum storage capacity of 28 acre-feet. Situated on the Wofford Branch river, this structure is regulated and inspected by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) to ensure its safety and compliance with state standards.

Despite being classified as having a high hazard potential, Morgan Dam is currently assessed to be in fair condition as of the last inspection in March 2020. With a hazard potential rating that indicates the risk of significant damage and loss of life in the event of a dam failure, ongoing monitoring and maintenance are critical to mitigate any potential threats. While the dam does not have associated locks or spillways, its recreational value and the need for effective risk management measures highlight the importance of continued oversight and emergency preparedness to safeguard both the dam and the surrounding community.

As a key feature in the local water resource infrastructure, Morgan Dam serves as a reminder of the critical role that dams play in providing recreational opportunities and water management. With its location in a high-risk area, the dam's condition assessment and hazard potential underscore the need for proactive risk management strategies and emergency preparedness to ensure the safety of the community and the longevity of the structure. In the face of changing climate patterns and increasing water resource challenges, the continued monitoring and maintenance of Morgan Dam are essential to safeguarding both the environment and the community's well-being.

Year Completed

1989

Dam Length

350

Dam Height

19

River Or Stream

WOFFORD BRANCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

4

Nid Storage

28

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

19
       
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.
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Area Campgrounds