Scotts Pond Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 24, 2025
Scotts Pond Dam, also known as Ruby Rawls Dam, is a private dam located in Aiken, South Carolina along Goose Platter Creek.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Built in 1920 for recreational purposes, this earth dam stands at a height of 20 feet and spans 835 feet in length, providing a storage capacity of 72 acre-feet. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam is currently assessed as being in poor condition as of its last inspection in August 2017.
Managed by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (SC DHEC), Scotts Pond Dam poses a moderate risk due to its outdated infrastructure and lack of maintenance. With a history dating back over a century, the dam requires regular inspection and potential rehabilitation to ensure public safety and environmental protection. The dam's location in a pristine natural setting makes it a key site for water resource and climate enthusiasts to monitor and advocate for proper upkeep and restoration efforts.
As climate change continues to impact water resources and infrastructure across the country, the preservation and maintenance of dams like Scotts Pond Dam are becoming increasingly vital. With its historical significance and recreational value, this dam serves as a reminder of the intersection between human development and environmental stewardship, calling for collaborative efforts to address the challenges posed by aging infrastructure and changing climate patterns.
Year Completed |
1920 |
Dam Length |
835 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
GOOSE PLATTER CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
11 |
Nid Storage |
72 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
20 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.
Hazard Potential Classification
HighDams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.
Scotts Pond Dam