Lake Darpo Dam
Key Takeaway
Lake Darpo Dam is classified as high hazard in South Carolina. It was completed in 1957 and is 69 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 | 15 ft (taller than 23.6% in SC) |
| Max Storage | 146 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 86 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 20 acres |
| Year Completed | 1957 (69 years old) |
| NID ID | SC00625 |
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
DARLINGTON COUNTY
Local Government
Nearby Dams
Spring Lake Dam
Darlington, SC
Low Hazard 16 ftJeffords Pond Dam
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Low Hazard 18 ftChapman'S Pond Dam
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Significant Hazard 17 ftGaley & Lord Pond Dam
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Low Hazard 14 ftCamp Coker Pond Dam
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Significant Hazard 11 ftCarroll Chapman Dam
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Low Hazard 11 ftLake Susan Dam
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High Hazard 24 ftGilbert Lake Dam
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Low Hazard 9 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Lake Darpo Dam?
Lake Darpo 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 Darpo Dam?
Lake Darpo Dam is owned by DARLINGTON COUNTY (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Lake Darpo Dam built?
Lake Darpo Dam was completed in 1957, making it 69 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 Darpo Dam?
Lake Darpo 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 Darpo Dam?
Lake Darpo Dam has a dam height of 15 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 Darpo Dam last inspected?
Lake Darpo Dam was last inspected on June 20, 2023. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.