Lake Greenwood (South Carolina)

Lake Greenwood is a reservoir located in the Piedmont region of South Carolina, USA. It spans parts of Greenwood, Laurens, and Newberry counties. The lake was created in 1940 with the construction of the Buzzard Roost Dam (also known as the Greenwood Dam) on the Saluda River by the Greenwood County Electric Power Commission (now the Lakelands Region of South Carolina).

The primary purpose of Lake Greenwood was originally hydroelectric power generation. However, it has since become a significant recreational area, offering opportunities for boating, fishing, swimming, and other water sports. The lake covers approximately 11,400 acres (46 km2) and has a shoreline of over 200 miles (320 km).

The lake's ecosystem supports a variety of fish species, including largemouth bass, crappie, catfish, and bream, making it a popular destination for anglers. Numerous public access points and boat ramps provide access to the lake.

Water quality is an ongoing concern, with efforts made to manage runoff and pollution from surrounding agricultural and residential areas. The Lake Greenwood Association, along with other organizations and government agencies, works to protect and improve the health of the lake's ecosystem.