Orangeburg Substation Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
The Orangeburg Substation Dam, located in Orangeburg, South Carolina, is a Federal-owned structure designed by URS Group, Inc.
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Summary
The dam was completed in 1936 and serves as a Fish and Wildlife Pond on Whirlwind Creek. It has a height of 17 feet and a length of 1103 feet, with a storage capacity of 558 acre-feet and a drainage area of 5.96 square miles.
Managed by the Fish and Wildlife Service, the dam has a low hazard potential and a satisfactory condition assessment as of the last inspection in August 2014. It features outlet gates for controlled water release and underwent modifications in 2004 for hydraulic, mechanical, seismic, and structural improvements. The dam plays a crucial role in maintaining the ecological balance in the area and ensuring the safety of downstream communities.
Although not regulated by the state, the Orangeburg Substation Dam is a vital component of the Savannah District's water resource management. With its strategic location and design, the dam provides essential water storage for wildlife habitat while minimizing the risk of flooding. Climate and water resource enthusiasts will appreciate the dam's contribution to environmental conservation and its role in sustaining the delicate ecosystem of Whirlwind Creek.
Years Modified |
2004 - Hydraulic, 2004 - Mechanical, 2004 - Seismic, 2004 - Structural, 2007 - Hydraulic |
Year Completed |
1936 |
Dam Length |
1103 |
Dam Height |
17 |
River Or Stream |
WHIRLWIND CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
50 |
Hydraulic Height |
16 |
Drainage Area |
5.96 |
Nid Storage |
558 |
Structural Height |
22 |
Outlet Gates |
Other Controlled, Slide (sluice gate) |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
22 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Orangeburg Substation Dam