Big Rock Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Big Rock Lake Dam is classified as high hazard in South Carolina. It was completed in 1955 and is 71 years old. Its primary use is flood risk reduction. 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 | 30 ft (taller than 78.9% in SC) |
| Max Storage | 67 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 55 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 6 acres |
| Year Completed | 1955 (71 years old) |
| NID ID | SC01378 |
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
BIG ROCK LAKE HOMEOWNERS ASSOC
Private
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High Hazard 24 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Big Rock Lake Dam?
Big Rock 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 Big Rock Lake Dam?
Big Rock Lake Dam is owned by BIG ROCK LAKE HOMEOWNERS ASSOC (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Big Rock Lake Dam built?
Big Rock Lake Dam was completed in 1955, making it 71 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 Big Rock Lake Dam?
Big Rock Lake Dam serves the following purposes: Flood Risk Reduction, Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Big Rock Lake Dam?
Big Rock Lake Dam has a dam height of 30 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 Big Rock Lake Dam last inspected?
Big Rock Lake Dam was last inspected on October 7, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.