Parr Shoals Dam
Key Takeaway
Parr Shoals Dam is classified as high hazard in South Carolina. It was completed in 1914 and is 112 years old. Its primary use is hydroelectric. 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 | 52 ft (taller than 97.2% in SC) |
| Dam Length | 2,715 ft |
| Dam Type | Gravity |
| Max Storage | 32.0K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 32.0K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 44,000 acres |
| Drainage Area | 4,750 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 163,080 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1914 (112 years old) |
| NID ID | SC01069 |
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
South Carolina Electric and Gas Company
Public Utility
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What is the hazard classification of Parr Shoals Dam?
Parr Shoals 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 Parr Shoals Dam?
Parr Shoals Dam is owned by South Carolina Electric and Gas Company (Public Utility). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Parr Shoals Dam built?
Parr Shoals Dam was completed in 1914, making it 112 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 Parr Shoals Dam?
Parr Shoals Dam serves the following purposes: Hydroelectric. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Parr Shoals Dam?
Parr Shoals Dam has a dam height of 52 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 Parr Shoals Dam last inspected?
Parr Shoals Dam was last inspected on October 18, 2021. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.