Lake Caldwell Dam
Key Takeaway
Lake Caldwell Dam is classified as high hazard in South Carolina. It was completed in 1968 and is 58 years old. Its primary use is recreation. 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 | 36 ft (taller than 88.9% in SC) |
| Max Storage | 94 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 44 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 4 acres |
| Year Completed | 1968 (58 years old) |
| NID ID | SC01714 |
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
BOY SCOUTS OF AMERICA BLUE RIDGE COUNCIL
Private
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High Hazard 27 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Lake Caldwell Dam?
Lake Caldwell Dam 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 Lake Caldwell Dam?
Lake Caldwell Dam is owned by BOY SCOUTS OF AMERICA BLUE RIDGE COUNCIL (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Lake Caldwell Dam built?
Lake Caldwell Dam was completed in 1968, making it 58 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 Lake Caldwell Dam?
Lake Caldwell Dam serves the following purposes: Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Lake Caldwell Dam?
Lake Caldwell Dam has a dam height of 36 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 Lake Caldwell Dam last inspected?
Lake Caldwell Dam was last inspected on September 21, 2021. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.