Nicholas Creek Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 15, 2025
Nicholas Creek Dam, also known as Chestnut Hill Dam, is a privately owned structure located in Richland, South Carolina.
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Summary
Completed in 1994, this earth dam stands at a height of 23 feet and has a length of 650 feet. With a storage capacity of 430 acre-feet, the dam primarily serves the purpose of irrigation, with additional recreational benefits.
Situated on the TR-Broad River, Nicholas Creek Dam is regulated by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC). This dam has a significant hazard potential but is currently assessed to be in fair condition as of the last inspection in December 2020. Despite its age, the dam continues to provide vital water resource management for the surrounding area and remains a key feature in the local landscape.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Nicholas Creek Dam offers a fascinating glimpse into the intersection of human infrastructure and natural ecosystems. As a critical component in the region's irrigation system, this dam plays a crucial role in managing water supply and supporting agricultural activities. Its maintenance and regulation by the state ensure the safety and sustainability of the dam for both present and future generations, making it a noteworthy example of responsible water resource management in South Carolina.
Year Completed |
1994 |
Dam Length |
650 |
Dam Height |
23 |
River Or Stream |
TR-BROAD RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
37 |
Nid Storage |
430 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Rock, Soil |
Nid Height |
23 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Saluda River Below Lk Murray Dam Nr Columbia
|
790cfs |
Saluda River Near Columbia
|
907cfs |
Smith Branch At North Main St At Columbia
|
4cfs |
Congaree River At Columbia
|
3010cfs |
Broad River At Alston
|
1790cfs |
Gills Creek At Columbia
|
38cfs |
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.
Nicholas Creek Dam