Fishing Creek

Catawba River· Lancaster, South Carolina· Built 1916· Gravity· 105 ft tall
High Hazard Hydroelectric Public Utility

Key Takeaway

Fishing Creek is classified as high hazard in South Carolina. It was completed in 1916 and is 110 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 105 ft (taller than 99.4% in SC)
Dam Length1,840 ft
Dam TypeGravity
Max Storage60.0K acre-ft
Normal Storage60.0K acre-ft
Surface Area3,370 acres
Drainage Area3,810 sq mi
Max Discharge880,000 cfs
Year Completed1916 (110 years old)
NID IDSC01072

Safety Information

High Hazard

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?

Emergency Action Plan: Yes
Last Inspection: May 10, 2022
State Regulated: No

Ownership

Duke Energy

Public Utility

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Fishing Creek?

Fishing Creek 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 Fishing Creek?

Fishing Creek is owned by Duke Energy (Public Utility). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Fishing Creek built?

Fishing Creek was completed in 1916, making it 110 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 Fishing Creek?

Fishing Creek serves the following purposes: Hydroelectric. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

How tall is Fishing Creek?

Fishing Creek has a dam height of 105 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 Fishing Creek last inspected?

Fishing Creek was last inspected on May 10, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.

Data from the National Inventory of Dams (NID) maintained by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Dam conditions may have changed since the last update. This site is not affiliated with USACE. Do not use for emergency planning — contact your local dam safety program.