Lake Emory Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Lake Emory Dam, located in Spartanburg, South Carolina, serves as a vital structure for debris control and recreational purposes along Greene Creek.


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Summary

Completed in 1997, this private earth dam stands at a height of 21 feet and has a length of 740 feet, providing a storage capacity of 256 acre-feet. Despite its fair condition assessment and high hazard potential, the dam is regularly inspected by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control to ensure its safety and effectiveness.

The dam's primary purpose of debris control is crucial for maintaining water quality and preventing blockages in the creek. Additionally, the dam's recreational benefits offer opportunities for locals and visitors to enjoy activities such as fishing and boating on Lake Emory. With a normal storage capacity of 114 acre-feet and a surface area of 21 acres, the dam plays a significant role in managing water resources in the region while providing a scenic backdrop for outdoor enthusiasts.

While the dam has faced modifications over the years, its core structure of stone and foundations of rock and soil have withstood the test of time. With a history of regular inspections and a contingency plan in place, Lake Emory Dam remains a vital asset for both water resource management and recreational enjoyment in Spartanburg, South Carolina.

Year Completed

1997

Dam Length

740

Dam Height

21

River Or Stream

GREENE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

21

Nid Storage

256

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

21
       
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.