Neil Richardson Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Neil Richardson Dam, located in Anderson, South Carolina, is a private-owned structure with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

Completed in 1994, this earth dam stands at 19 feet high and spans 710 feet in length, providing a storage capacity of 150 acre-feet. The dam is situated on Reedy Creek and is regulated by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC), with regular inspections and enforcement measures in place to ensure safety and compliance.

Despite its significant hazard potential, the dam is currently in poor condition, as assessed during the last inspection in June 2017. With an inspection frequency of every three years, the dam's emergency action plan and risk assessment measures are not up to date, posing potential risks to surrounding areas in case of a breach. The dam's condition and safety protocols highlight the importance of ongoing maintenance and monitoring to mitigate any potential threats and ensure the dam's resilience in the face of changing climate patterns and water resource management challenges.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in Neil Richardson Dam can appreciate the recreational opportunities it offers while also recognizing the need for continued vigilance and risk management to safeguard the surrounding community and ecosystem. By staying informed about the dam's condition, regulatory oversight, and emergency preparedness measures, enthusiasts can contribute to the preservation of this vital water resource infrastructure in South Carolina.

Year Completed

1994

Dam Length

710

Dam Height

19

River Or Stream

REEDY CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

18

Nid Storage

150

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

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.