Dr John Keith Dam 1 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

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Summary

John Keith Dam 1, located in Spartanburg, South Carolina, was completed in 1988 by the USDA NRCS and serves as a vital structure for debris control along Pauline Creek. This private-owned Earth dam stands at a height of 33 feet and has a length of 360 feet, with a storage capacity of 231 acre-feet. The dam, primarily designed for debris control, also supports recreational activities and covers a surface area of 17.5 acres.

Managed by the SC DHEC, Dr. John Keith Dam 1 has a low hazard potential and is assessed to be in fair condition as of the last inspection in 2017. With uncontrolled spillways and outlets, the dam presents moderate risk, but is regularly inspected every 5 years to ensure its safety and integrity. The dam's importance in managing water resources and protecting the surrounding area from debris highlights its significance in the region's water infrastructure.

Overall, Dr. John Keith Dam 1 plays a crucial role in maintaining the water quality of Pauline Creek and providing recreational opportunities for the community. As a part of the broader water management system in South Carolina, this dam stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water resource practices and the need for regular maintenance and inspection to ensure public safety and environmental protection.

Year Completed

1988

Dam Length

360

Dam Height

33

River Or Stream

PAULINE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

17.5

Nid Storage

231

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

33
       
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.