West Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 16, 2025

West Dam, Bad Creek is a hydroelectric dam located in Oconee County, South Carolina, along the Bad Creek and West Bad Creek rivers.


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Summary

Completed in 1991, this earth and rockfill dam stands at a height of 170 feet and has a length of 900 feet. The dam has a storage capacity of 33,892 acre-feet and a surface area of 367 acres, making it a significant contributor to the region's water resource management.

Managed by a public utility, West Dam serves as a key infrastructure for generating hydroelectric power, with the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission overseeing its operations and inspections. Despite its high hazard potential, with a risk assessment rating of 2, the dam's condition assessment is currently listed as "Not Available." This suggests the need for ongoing monitoring and risk management measures to ensure the safety and stability of the dam.

With its picturesque location in the heart of South Carolina, West Dam, Bad Creek is not only a vital energy source but also a symbol of sustainable water resource management in the region. As climate enthusiasts and water resource advocates continue to monitor and assess the dam's condition, its role in supporting renewable energy and contributing to the local ecosystem remains a point of interest and importance for the community.

Year Completed

1991

Dam Length

900

Dam Height

170

River Or Stream

Bad Creek, West Bad Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

367

Nid Storage

33892

Structural Height

170

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

170
       
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.