North Saluda Reservoir Dam
Key Takeaway
North Saluda Reservoir Dam is classified as high hazard in South Carolina. It was completed in 1956 and is 70 years old. Its primary use is water supply. 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 | 175 ft (taller than 99.8% in SC) |
| Max Storage | 80.6K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 66.9K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 1,050 acres |
| Year Completed | 1956 (70 years old) |
| NID ID | SC00025 |
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
GREENVILLE WATER
Public Utility
Nearby Dams
Rudolf Pond Dam
Greenville, SC
Unknown 27 ftAnne Parks Short Branch Dam
Greenville, SC
High Hazard 26 ftLake Caldwell Dam
Greenville, SC
High Hazard 36 ftCliffs Valley Dam
Greenville, SC
High Hazard 40 ftLook Up Lodge Dam
Greenville, SC
High Hazard 47 ftN Morgan Pond Dam
Greenville, SC
Significant Hazard 29 ftLake Mollirene Dam
Greenville, SC
High Hazard 37 ftRice Pond Dam
Greenville, SC
High Hazard 25 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of North Saluda Reservoir Dam?
North Saluda Reservoir 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 North Saluda Reservoir Dam?
North Saluda Reservoir Dam is owned by GREENVILLE WATER (Public Utility). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was North Saluda Reservoir Dam built?
North Saluda Reservoir Dam was completed in 1956, making it 70 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 North Saluda Reservoir Dam?
North Saluda Reservoir Dam serves the following purposes: Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is North Saluda Reservoir Dam?
North Saluda Reservoir Dam has a dam height of 175 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 North Saluda Reservoir Dam last inspected?
North Saluda Reservoir Dam was last inspected on August 9, 2023. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.