Lake Cheohee Dam
Key Takeaway
Lake Cheohee Dam is classified as high hazard in South Carolina. It was completed in 1950 and is 76 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 | 41 ft (taller than 93% in SC) |
| Max Storage | 415 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 390 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 25 acres |
| Year Completed | 1950 (76 years old) |
| NID ID | SC00511 |
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
CHEOHEE PROPERTIES LLC
Private
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Townes Creek Dam
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Significant Hazard 26 ftLeonidas Dam
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High Hazard 21 ftThrift Lake Dam
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Low Hazard 31 ftWhitewater Lake Dam
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High Hazard 37 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Lake Cheohee Dam?
Lake Cheohee 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 Cheohee Dam?
Lake Cheohee Dam is owned by CHEOHEE PROPERTIES LLC (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Lake Cheohee Dam built?
Lake Cheohee Dam was completed in 1950, making it 76 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 Cheohee Dam?
Lake Cheohee 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 Cheohee Dam?
Lake Cheohee Dam has a dam height of 41 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 Cheohee Dam last inspected?
Lake Cheohee Dam was last inspected on February 13, 2023. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.