Upper Northlake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Upper Northlake Dam, located in Greenwood, South Carolina, stands as a significant structure along the TR-ROCKY CREEK river.


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Summary

Completed in 1989, this earth dam serves a primary purpose of recreation, offering a serene environment for water resource and climate enthusiasts to enjoy. With a height of 28 feet and a length of 250 feet, the dam boasts a storage capacity of 41 acre-feet, providing ample opportunities for outdoor activities.

Despite its recreational appeal, Upper Northlake Dam poses a significant hazard potential due to its poor condition assessment. The dam's risk assessment is classified as very high, emphasizing the need for proper maintenance and risk management measures to ensure public safety. The structure is regulated by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC), with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place to monitor its integrity and safety.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts visit Upper Northlake Dam for recreational purposes, it is crucial to recognize the potential risks associated with this structure. With its controlled spillway and stone core construction, the dam requires regular inspection and maintenance to mitigate hazards and safeguard the surrounding community. As stakeholders work towards ensuring the dam's safety and functionality, it remains a focal point for outdoor enjoyment and appreciation of the natural environment in Greenwood, South Carolina.

Year Completed

1989

Dam Length

250

Dam Height

28

River Or Stream

TR-ROCKY CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

3

Nid Storage

41

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Soil

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.