Crystal Lakes Lower Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Crystal Lakes Lower Dam in Aiken, South Carolina, is a state-regulated structure with a height of 26 feet and a storage capacity of 70 acre-feet.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Despite its low hazard potential, the dam is currently in poor condition, as per the last inspection in August 2017. The dam is under the jurisdiction of the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC), with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place.

Located in Congressional District 02, South Carolina, Crystal Lakes Lower Dam is a crucial part of the local water resource infrastructure. While the dam's primary purpose and design details are not specified in the data, its association with the Charleston District of the US Army Corps of Engineers indicates federal interest in its operations. With no associated structures and a relatively low risk profile, the dam stands as a key asset for water management in the region.

Although the dam's condition assessment raises concerns, the regular inspection schedule and state oversight suggest a commitment to ensuring the safety and functionality of Crystal Lakes Lower Dam. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, monitoring the maintenance and potential improvements to this essential infrastructure can provide valuable insights into the intersection of environmental management and community resilience in South Carolina.

Dam Height

26

Nid Storage

70

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

26
       
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.