Lake Calton Dam
Key Takeaway
Lake Calton Dam is classified as high hazard in South Carolina. It was completed in 1958 and is 68 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 | 39 ft (taller than 91.5% in SC) |
| Max Storage | 129 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 105 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 8 acres |
| Year Completed | 1958 (68 years old) |
| NID ID | SC00698 |
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
CHARLES WINCHESTER;DOUGLAS WINCHESTER
Private
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Low Hazard 27 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Lake Calton Dam?
Lake Calton 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 Calton Dam?
Lake Calton Dam is owned by CHARLES WINCHESTER;DOUGLAS WINCHESTER (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Lake Calton Dam built?
Lake Calton 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 Lake Calton Dam?
Lake Calton 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 Calton Dam?
Lake Calton Dam has a dam height of 39 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 Calton Dam last inspected?
Lake Calton Dam was last inspected on October 25, 2021. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.