Buzzards Roost Embankment
Key Takeaway
Buzzards Roost Embankment is classified as high hazard in South Carolina. It was completed in 1940 and is 86 years old. Its primary use is hydroelectric. 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 | 82 ft (taller than 99.2% in SC) |
| Dam Length | 2,400 ft |
| Dam Type | Gravity |
| Max Storage | 256.0K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 256.0K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 11,400 acres |
| Drainage Area | 1,170 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 40,000 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1940 (86 years old) |
| NID ID | SC00109 |
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
Greenwood County, SC
Local Government
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Low Hazard 15 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Buzzards Roost Embankment?
Buzzards Roost Embankment 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 Buzzards Roost Embankment?
Buzzards Roost Embankment is owned by Greenwood County, SC (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Buzzards Roost Embankment built?
Buzzards Roost Embankment was completed in 1940, making it 86 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 Buzzards Roost Embankment?
Buzzards Roost Embankment serves the following purposes: Hydroelectric, Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Buzzards Roost Embankment?
Buzzards Roost Embankment has a dam height of 82 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 Buzzards Roost Embankment last inspected?
Buzzards Roost Embankment was last inspected on August 10, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.