D.O.E. Savannah River Steel Creek Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

The D.O.E.


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Summary

Savannah River Steel Creek Dam, also known as L Lake Dam, is a federal-owned structure located in Barnwell, South Carolina. Completed in 1986, this earth dam stands at a height of 77 feet and has a hydraulic height of 72 feet. With a storage capacity of 39,616 acre-feet, the dam serves multiple purposes and is primarily managed by the Department of Energy.

Despite its high hazard potential and risk assessment rating of 2, the dam does not have a spillway and is not regulated by the state. The dam's last inspection was conducted in July 2005, and its condition assessment is currently listed as "Not Available." Emergency action plans and risk management measures for the dam are also not readily accessible.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in exploring the complexities of dam infrastructure and management can find an intriguing case study in the D.O.E. Savannah River Steel Creek Dam. With its unique design features, high hazard potential, and limited state oversight, this dam presents a compelling opportunity for further research and analysis in the realm of water resource management and climate resilience.

Year Completed

1986

Dam Length

4027

Dam Height

77

River Or Stream

STEEL CR-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

1034

Hydraulic Height

72

Drainage Area

9

Nid Storage

39616

Structural Height

77

Outlet Gates

None, Slide (sluice gate) - 2

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

77
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.