Jocassee
Key Takeaway
Jocassee is classified as high hazard in South Carolina. It was completed in 1973 and is 53 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 | 385 ft (taller than 100% in SC) |
| Dam Length | 1,800 ft |
| Dam Type | Rockfill |
| Max Storage | 1.2M acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 1.2M acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 7,565 acres |
| Drainage Area | 147 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1973 (53 years old) |
| NID ID | SC00529 |
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
Duke Energy
Public Utility
Nearby Dams
Jocassee Ridge Reflections Dam
Oconee, SC
High Hazard 41 ftLake Diana Dam
Pickens, SC
High Hazard 22 ftGertrude Harris Dam
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High Hazard 24 ftKeowee River Club Dam
Pickens, SC
Significant Hazard 63 ftKeasler Pond Dam
Pickens, SC
High Hazard 33 ftMountain Springs Lake Dam
Oconee, SC
Significant Hazard 19 ftEdward Brower Dam
Oconee, SC
Low Hazard 31 ftWhitewater Lake Dam
Oconee, SC
High Hazard 37 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Jocassee?
Jocassee 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 Jocassee?
Jocassee is owned by Duke Energy (Public Utility). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Jocassee built?
Jocassee was completed in 1973, making it 53 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 Jocassee?
Jocassee 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 Jocassee?
Jocassee has a dam height of 385 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 Jocassee last inspected?
Jocassee was last inspected on July 6, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.