The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) Savannah District announced Wednesday, August 26, 2026, that they will initiate lower lake level restrictions until a long-term solution is developed to resolve the worsening seepage of the Clemson Lower Diversion Dam Saddle Dike on Hartwell Lake.
Water is seeping through parts of the dike causing material to erode, which can eventually weaken the dam. More recent analysis of data from severe conditions, such as Hurricane Helene, has shown that the issue is worsening.
There is no immediate danger to the public. However, during a recent USACE dam safety program evaluation, required actions were identified including new lake level restrictions. USACE will shift the guide curve down 4 feet with a new full pool level of 656 ft. The temporary restriction is intended to reduce stress on the dike until a permanent solution is implemented.
The estimated timeline is a five- to ten-year process. Due to the already low water level from lack of rain, recreational users will see no immediate changes. Once sufficient rains return to refill the lake, the new full pool level of 656 ft. will be the target.
Lake Hartwell Association (LHA) leadership has been in contact with representatives from the Army Corps about the situation. We will keep you informed as we learn more. We hope to partner with the Corps on some in-person information sessions over the next few weeks. Looking further ahead, we encourage members to attend the annual meeting on October 15, 2026, at 6pm at the Anderson Civic Center. A representative from USACE will be speaking and answering questions about the dike repairs as well as other lake related issues.
Please submit your questions about the lake restriction level or any other lake related questions to [email protected] in advance of the meeting.
View the press release on the USACE website here.
View more information on Lake Level Restrictions here.