Charles Max Laye Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Charles Max Laye Dam, located in Greenville, South Carolina, is a privately-owned structure that serves as a Fish and Wildlife Pond.


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Summary

Constructed in 1994, this earth-fill dam stands at a height of 38 feet and has a length of 250 feet. With a storage capacity of 40 acre-feet, the dam plays a vital role in maintaining a normal storage level of 30 acre-feet, covering a surface area of 3 acres.

Managed by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control, the dam is regularly inspected, with its condition assessed as fair as of October 2020. Despite its significant hazard potential, the dam meets regulatory requirements and is equipped with emergency action preparedness plans. With its primary purpose to support fish and wildlife habitats, Charles Max Laye Dam contributes to the conservation and preservation of natural resources in the region.

Enthusiasts of water resources and climate sustainability will appreciate the role of Charles Max Laye Dam in managing the flow of Horse Creek. As a key structure in the region, it not only supports local ecosystems but also serves as a significant asset for flood control and water management. With its strategic location and design, this dam stands as a testament to the importance of responsible stewardship of our water resources for both ecological and societal benefits.

Year Completed

1994

Dam Length

250

Dam Height

38

River Or Stream

TR-HORSE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

3

Nid Storage

40

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

38
       
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.