Cliffs Valley Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Located in Greenville, South Carolina, the Cliffs Valley Dam, also known as The Cliffs Dam, is a private dam designed for flood risk reduction along the TR-Terry Creek.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Completed in 2002, this Earth dam stands at a height of 40 feet with a length of 231 feet, providing a storage capacity of 275 acre-feet. With a primary purpose of flood risk reduction, the dam also serves as a recreational area for enthusiasts to enjoy.

Managed by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (SC DHEC), the Cliffs Valley Dam is regulated, inspected, and enforced by the state to ensure its safety and integrity. With a hazard potential rated as high and a fair condition assessment, the dam is equipped with emergency action plans and regular inspections to mitigate risks and address any potential issues. The presence of associated structures and a designated emergency management plan further enhance the dam's preparedness for any unforeseen events.

From its stone core foundation to its soil base, the Cliffs Valley Dam exemplifies a harmonious blend of engineering and environmental stewardship. With its strategic location and design, this dam stands as a testament to the importance of water resource management and climate resilience in safeguarding communities against potential flooding events. As a focal point for both flood risk reduction and recreation, the Cliffs Valley Dam symbolizes the balance between human development and environmental conservation in the face of changing climatic conditions.

Year Completed

2002

Dam Length

231

Dam Height

40

River Or Stream

TR-TERRY CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

10

Nid Storage

275

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

40
       
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.