Barr Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Barr Lake Dam is classified as high hazard in South Carolina. It was completed in 1900 and is 126 years old. Its primary use is recreation. High hazard means loss of life is likely if the dam fails — it does not indicate the dam's current condition. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 11 ft (taller than 8.3% in SC) |
| Max Storage | 359 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 243 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 64 acres |
| Year Completed | 1900 (126 years old) |
| NID ID | SC00148 |
Safety Information
Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
BARR LAKE HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION INC
Private
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High Hazard 24 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Barr Lake Dam?
Barr Lake Dam is classified as High Hazard. Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Barr Lake Dam?
Barr Lake Dam is owned by BARR LAKE HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION INC (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Barr Lake Dam built?
Barr Lake Dam was completed in 1900, making it 126 years old. Many U.S. dams were built between the 1930s and 1970s during a period of major infrastructure investment.
What is the primary purpose of Barr Lake Dam?
Barr Lake Dam serves the following purposes: Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Barr Lake Dam?
Barr Lake Dam has a dam height of 11 ft. Dam height is measured from the natural streambed at the downstream toe to the top of the dam, and may differ from the visible height.
When was Barr Lake Dam last inspected?
Barr Lake Dam was last inspected on September 21, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.