Lake Placid Dam
Key Takeaway
Lake Placid Dam is classified as high hazard in South Carolina. It was completed in 1889 and is 137 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 | 28 ft (taller than 74.2% in SC) |
| Max Storage | 198 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 167 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 16 acres |
| Year Completed | 1889 (137 years old) |
| NID ID | SC01771 |
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
SC DEPARTMENT OF PARKS RECREATION AND TOURISM
State Government
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High Hazard 50 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Lake Placid Dam?
Lake Placid 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 Placid Dam?
Lake Placid Dam is owned by SC DEPARTMENT OF PARKS RECREATION AND TOURISM (State Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Lake Placid Dam built?
Lake Placid Dam was completed in 1889, making it 137 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 Placid Dam?
Lake Placid 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 Placid Dam?
Lake Placid Dam has a dam height of 28 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 Placid Dam last inspected?
Lake Placid Dam was last inspected on August 9, 2023. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.