Edward Groves Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Edward Groves Dam, located in Laurens, South Carolina, stands as a testament to the importance of water resources in the region.


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Summary

Completed in 1997, this private dam serves primarily for recreational purposes, offering a serene escape for visitors seeking to enjoy the tranquil surroundings. With a height of 30 feet and a storage capacity of 65 acre-feet, the dam offers a picturesque surface area of 7 acres for outdoor activities.

Despite its low hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment reflects a poor rating, highlighting the need for ongoing maintenance and inspection. Managed by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control, the dam's regulatory oversight ensures that safety measures are in place to protect the surrounding community. The dam's proximity to the Hunter Branch stream adds to its ecological significance, providing vital habitat and water resources for local wildlife.

As climate enthusiasts and water resource advocates continue to monitor the impact of climate change on our natural landscapes, the Edward Groves Dam serves as a reminder of the importance of sustainable water management practices. With its earth dam construction and buttress core design, the dam symbolizes the balance between human recreation and environmental conservation. As efforts to improve the dam's condition and safety measures progress, the Edward Groves Dam remains a vital component of the region's water infrastructure, showcasing the intersection of human ingenuity and natural beauty in the face of a changing climate.

Year Completed

1997

Dam Length

280

Dam Height

30

River Or Stream

TR-HUNTER BRANCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

7

Nid Storage

65

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

30
       
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.