Keels Lake Dam

TR-SWGERT CREEK· Richland, South Carolina· Built 1958· 30 ft tall
Significant Hazard Irrigation Recreation Private

Key Takeaway

Keels Lake Dam is classified as significant hazard in South Carolina. It was completed in 1958 and is 68 years old. Its primary use is irrigation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 30 ft (taller than 78.9% in SC)
Max Storage114 acre-ft
Normal Storage60 acre-ft
Surface Area6 acres
Year Completed1958 (68 years old)
NID IDSC00081

Safety Information

Significant Hazard

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?

Emergency Action Plan: Yes
Last Inspection: June 15, 2023
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: SC DHEC

Ownership

CEDAR LAKE ASSOCIATION

Private

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Keels Lake Dam?

Keels Lake Dam 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 Keels Lake Dam?

Keels Lake Dam is owned by CEDAR LAKE ASSOCIATION (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Keels Lake Dam built?

Keels Lake Dam was completed in 1958, making it 68 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 Keels Lake Dam?

Keels Lake Dam serves the following purposes: Irrigation, Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

How tall is Keels Lake Dam?

Keels 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 Keels Lake Dam last inspected?

Keels Lake Dam was last inspected on June 15, 2023. 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.