Laurel Meadows Drive Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Laurel Meadows Drive Dam in Lexington, South Carolina, is a state-regulated dam with a height of 11 feet and a storage capacity of 26 acre-feet.
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Summary
Despite its small size, this dam is classified as having a high hazard potential and is currently in poor condition, based on a recent inspection conducted in March 2021. The dam is located within the Savannah District of the US Army Corps of Engineers and falls under the jurisdiction of the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (SC DHEC).
The dam, which was completed in an unspecified year, is not associated with any other structures and does not have a designated primary purpose or dam type. It lacks important details such as spillway type, length, or volume, highlighting potential gaps in its design and functionality. Given its high hazard potential and poor condition assessment, efforts to improve the safety and integrity of Laurel Meadows Drive Dam are likely underway, with regular inspections and enforcement measures in place to mitigate any risks to the surrounding community and environment. Water resource and climate enthusiasts may find this small but impactful dam an intriguing case study in dam safety and management practices.
Dam Height |
11 |
Nid Storage |
26 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
11 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Saluda River Near Columbia
|
907cfs |
Saluda River Below Lk Murray Dam Nr Columbia
|
790cfs |
Congaree River At Columbia
|
3010cfs |
Smith Branch At North Main St At Columbia
|
3cfs |
Gills Creek At Columbia
|
37cfs |
Broad River At Alston
|
1880cfs |
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.
Laurel Meadows Drive Dam