Misty Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Misty Lake Dam is classified as high hazard in South Carolina. It was completed in 1920 and is 106 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 | 19 ft (taller than 41.8% in SC) |
| Max Storage | 67 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 39 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 6 acres |
| Year Completed | 1920 (106 years old) |
| NID ID | SC00360 |
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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Low Hazard 18 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Misty Lake Dam?
Misty Lake 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 Misty Lake Dam?
Misty Lake 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 Misty Lake Dam built?
Misty Lake Dam was completed in 1920, making it 106 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 Misty Lake Dam?
Misty Lake 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 Misty Lake Dam?
Misty Lake Dam has a dam height of 19 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 Misty Lake Dam last inspected?
Misty Lake Dam was last inspected on October 11, 2021. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.