Swansea Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Swansea Lake Dam is classified as high hazard in South Carolina. It was completed in 1900 and is 126 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 | 17 ft (taller than 33.8% in SC) |
| Max Storage | 220 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 115 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 15 acres |
| Year Completed | 1900 (126 years old) |
| NID ID | SC00160 |
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
PHILLIP LEE SHEALY AND SAVANNAH HUTTO
Private
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Low Hazard 13 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Swansea Lake Dam?
Swansea 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 Swansea Lake Dam?
Swansea Lake Dam is owned by PHILLIP LEE SHEALY AND SAVANNAH HUTTO (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Swansea Lake Dam built?
Swansea Lake Dam was completed in 1900, making it 126 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 Swansea Lake Dam?
Swansea 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 Swansea Lake Dam?
Swansea Lake Dam has a dam height of 17 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 Swansea Lake Dam last inspected?
Swansea Lake Dam was last inspected on September 27, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.