Ws Lee Steam Plant Primary Ash Basin Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
The Ws Lee Steam Plant Primary Ash Basin Dam, located in Anderson, South Carolina, is a crucial structure owned by a public utility and regulated by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control.
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Summary
Completed in 1974, this earth dam stands at a height of 26 feet and has a length of 265 feet, with a storage capacity of 370 acre-feet. The dam serves a primary purpose other than flood control, with a hazard potential rated as high and a satisfactory condition assessment as of June 2019.
Situated on the Saluda River offstream, the Ws Lee Steam Plant Primary Ash Basin Dam plays a vital role in water resource management in the region. Despite its high hazard potential, the dam has undergone regular inspections, with the last one conducted in June 2019. With a normal storage capacity of 56.4 acre-feet and a surface area of 19 acres, this dam is an integral part of the local infrastructure, ensuring the safety and well-being of nearby communities.
With its stone core and soil foundation, the Ws Lee Steam Plant Primary Ash Basin Dam represents a significant engineering feat. As a key component of the region's water management system, this dam requires ongoing attention and maintenance to mitigate potential risks and ensure its continued effectiveness. Supported by the Charleston District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, this dam serves as a critical piece of infrastructure in safeguarding the surrounding area from the impacts of water resource and climate challenges.
Year Completed |
1974 |
Dam Length |
265 |
Dam Height |
26 |
River Or Stream |
SALUDA RIVER OFFSTREAM |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
19 |
Nid Storage |
370 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
26 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Saluda River Near Williamston
|
458cfs |
Reedy River Above Fork Shoals
|
116cfs |
Reedy River Near Greenville
|
36cfs |
Saluda River Near Greenville
|
348cfs |
Rocky River Nr Starr
|
58cfs |
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.
Ws Lee Steam Plant Primary Ash Basin Dam