Poplar Lake Dam

MENG CREEK· Union, South Carolina· Built 1947· 18 ft tall
Significant Hazard Recreation Private

Key Takeaway

Poplar Lake Dam is classified as significant hazard in South Carolina. It was completed in 1947 and is 79 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 18 ft (taller than 37.9% in SC)
Max Storage49 acre-ft
Normal Storage39 acre-ft
Surface Area7 acres
Year Completed1947 (79 years old)
NID IDSC01513

Safety Information

Significant Hazard

No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities.

Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?

Emergency Action Plan: Yes
Last Inspection: January 10, 2023
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: SC DHEC

Ownership

MICHAEL P NICHOLS 

Private

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Poplar Lake Dam?

Poplar Lake Dam is classified as Significant Hazard. No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.

Who owns and operates Poplar Lake Dam?

Poplar Lake Dam is owned by MICHAEL P NICHOLS  (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Poplar Lake Dam built?

Poplar Lake Dam was completed in 1947, making it 79 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 Poplar Lake Dam?

Poplar 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 Poplar Lake Dam?

Poplar Lake Dam has a dam height of 18 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 Poplar Lake Dam last inspected?

Poplar Lake Dam was last inspected on January 10, 2023. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.

Data from the National Inventory of Dams (NID) maintained by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Dam conditions may have changed since the last update. This site is not affiliated with USACE. Do not use for emergency planning — contact your local dam safety program.