Gaston Shoals Lower
Key Takeaway
Gaston Shoals Lower is classified as significant hazard in South Carolina. It was completed in 1908 and is 118 years old. Its primary use is hydroelectric. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 62 ft (taller than 98.4% in SC) |
| Dam Length | 472 ft |
| Dam Type | Concrete |
| Max Storage | 2.5K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 2.5K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 251 acres |
| Drainage Area | 1,300 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1908 (118 years old) |
| NID ID | SC01075 |
Safety Information
No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
Northbrook Carolina Hydro II, LLC
Private
Nearby Dams
Lake Whelchel
Cherokee, SC
High Hazard 73 ftFred Richards Dam
Cherokee, SC
Low Hazard 31 ftHorace Glenn Dam
Cleveland, NC
Low HazardD C Hughey Dam
Cherokee, SC
Low Hazard 30 ftCherokee Falls
Cherokee, SC
Significant Hazard 16 ftHoechst Celanese Dam
Cleveland, NC
Significant HazardL B Izzi Dam
Cleveland, NC
Low HazardLake Cherokee Dam
Cherokee, SC
High Hazard 40 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Gaston Shoals Lower?
Gaston Shoals Lower is classified as Significant Hazard. No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Gaston Shoals Lower?
Gaston Shoals Lower is owned by Northbrook Carolina Hydro II, LLC (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Gaston Shoals Lower built?
Gaston Shoals Lower was completed in 1908, making it 118 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 Gaston Shoals Lower?
Gaston Shoals Lower 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 Gaston Shoals Lower?
Gaston Shoals Lower has a dam height of 62 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 Gaston Shoals Lower last inspected?
Gaston Shoals Lower was last inspected on September 21, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.