Maxwell Springs Sub Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Maxwell Springs Sub Dam, located in Greenwood, South Carolina, is a privately owned earth dam completed in 2002 primarily for recreation purposes.
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Summary
With a height of 22 feet and a length of 355 feet, this buttress-cored structure has a storage capacity of 166 acre-feet, providing ample opportunity for water-based activities and wildlife habitat. The dam is regulated by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC), ensuring that it meets state requirements for safety and maintenance.
Despite being classified as having a significant hazard potential, Maxwell Springs Sub Dam received a fair condition assessment during its last inspection in October 2017. Emergency action plans are in place, and the dam is regularly inspected every three years to ensure its ongoing safety and compliance. The surrounding Armstrong Branch river system benefits from the dam's presence, contributing to the local ecosystem and providing a recreational haven for water resource and climate enthusiasts alike. With its picturesque setting and essential role in water management, Maxwell Springs Sub Dam stands as a vital asset within the Savannah District of South Carolina.
Year Completed |
2002 |
Dam Length |
355 |
Dam Height |
22 |
River Or Stream |
ARMSTRONG BRANCH |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
12 |
Nid Storage |
166 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
22 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Lake Greenwood Tailrace Nr Chappells
|
1090cfs |
Saluda River Near Ware Shoals
|
503cfs |
Saluda River At Chappells
|
1220cfs |
Little River Near Mt. Carmel
|
83cfs |
Little River Nr Silverstreet
|
94cfs |
South Rabon Creek Near Gray Court
|
17cfs |
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.
Maxwell Springs Sub Dam