Fred Linsley Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 25, 2025
Fred Linsley Dam, located in Pickens, South Carolina, is a private dam constructed in 1987 primarily for debris control on TR-Eighteenmile Creek.
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Summary
Standing at a height of 32 feet and a length of 175 feet, this earth dam with buttress core type serves to store a maximum of 23 acre-feet of water with a normal storage capacity of 7.2 acre-feet. Despite its low hazard potential and fair condition assessment, the dam is regulated by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control and undergoes regular inspections every five years.
With a moderate risk assessment rating of 3, the dam poses a moderate level of risk, prompting the need for risk management measures to ensure its continued functionality and safety. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway type with zero spillway width, indicating a unique design for managing water flow. The surrounding area boasts a surface area of 1 acre and is situated within the Savannah District of the US Army Corps of Engineers jurisdiction, although the dam itself is privately owned and operated.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Fred Linsley Dam presents an intriguing case study in private dam ownership and management, highlighting the importance of regular inspections, risk assessments, and emergency preparedness. Its location on TR-Eighteenmile Creek adds to the ecological significance of the structure, emphasizing the need for sustainable water resource management practices. As climate change continues to impact water systems, understanding the role of dams like Fred Linsley in mitigating risks and ensuring water security becomes increasingly vital for environmental stewardship and resilience.
Year Completed |
1987 |
Dam Length |
175 |
Dam Height |
32 |
River Or Stream |
TR-EIGHTEENMILE CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
1 |
Nid Storage |
23 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
32 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Twelvemile Creek Near Liberty
|
71cfs |
Saluda River Near Greenville
|
273cfs |
Saluda River Near Williamston
|
384cfs |
Reedy River Near Greenville
|
31cfs |
Rocky River Nr Starr
|
43cfs |
Reedy River Above Fork Shoals
|
92cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Fred Linsley Dam