Lake Inspiration Dam
Key Takeaway
Lake Inspiration Dam is classified as high hazard in South Carolina. It was completed in 1940 and is 86 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 | 17 ft (taller than 33.8% in SC) |
| Max Storage | 140 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 120 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 23 acres |
| Year Completed | 1940 (86 years old) |
| NID ID | SC00585 |
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
TOWN OF ST MATTHEWS
Local Government
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High Hazard 23 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Lake Inspiration Dam?
Lake Inspiration 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 Inspiration Dam?
Lake Inspiration Dam is owned by TOWN OF ST MATTHEWS (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Lake Inspiration Dam built?
Lake Inspiration Dam was completed in 1940, making it 86 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 Inspiration Dam?
Lake Inspiration 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 Inspiration Dam?
Lake Inspiration Dam has a dam height of 17 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 Inspiration Dam last inspected?
Lake Inspiration Dam was last inspected on March 1, 2023. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.