The Clemson Lower Diversion Dam - Saddle Dike is a critical component of flood risk reduction efforts along the Seneca River in South Carolina.
Wind
Humidity
Constructed in 1961 by the US Army Corps of Engineers, this earth dam plays a vital role in preventing Lake Hartwell from flooding the lower elevations of Clemson University. The dam features subsurface concrete cutoff walls and seismic shear walls to mitigate seepage issues and provide stabilization during potential earthquakes. While the Upper and Lower Diversion Dams have a low risk of failure, the Saddle Dike is considered to have a moderate risk due to the potential for seepage-induced erosion of foundation soils.
USACE is actively managing the risk associated with the Saddle Dike by continuously updating the Emergency Action Plan, conducting emergency exercises, and performing regular inspections and maintenance. The pumping station, part of the flood control system, has a small flood risk during heavy rain events that exceed its capacity. Although flooding in low-lying areas of Clemson University may occur, the slow filling nature of the inundation provides time for safe evacuation. USACE collaborates closely with local and state emergency managers and Clemson University personnel to ensure effective risk management measures are in place to protect the campus and surrounding areas.
Overall, the Clemson Lower Diversion Dam - Saddle Dike is a key infrastructure ensuring flood resilience for the region. Through proactive risk management practices and collaboration with stakeholders, USACE is working to safeguard the dam and surrounding areas from potential flooding incidents, highlighting the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure the safety and security of the community.
Year Completed |
1961 |
Dam Height |
30 |
River Or Stream |
SENECA |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Drainage Area |
2088 |
Nid Storage |
3438700 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
30 |
Twelvemile Creek Near Liberty
|
85cfs |
Saluda River Near Williamston
|
458cfs |
Saluda River Near Greenville
|
348cfs |
Rocky River Nr Starr
|
58cfs |
Chattooga River Near Clayton
|
301cfs |
Reedy River Near Greenville
|
36cfs |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Twin Lakes - Hartwell Lake
|
||
Oconee Point - Hartwell Lake
|
||
Coneross - Hartwell Lake
|
||
South Cove
|
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South Cove County Park
|
||
High Falls County Park
|