Clemons Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Clemons Pond Dam, also known as Joel Clemons Dam, is a privately owned structure located in Horry County, South Carolina.


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Summary

Completed in 1965, this Earth-type dam serves primarily for recreation purposes, with a normal storage capacity of 16 acre-feet. The dam stands at a height of 9 feet and stretches 666 feet in length, creating a surface area of 11 acres for water enthusiasts to enjoy.

Maintained by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC), Clemons Pond Dam has a low hazard potential and was last assessed to be in fair condition in December 2017. With a moderate risk assessment rating, the dam is periodically inspected every 5 years to ensure its safety and functionality. Despite its uncontrolled spillway type, the dam continues to provide recreational opportunities while being regulated and permitted by the state, demonstrating a commitment to water resource management and climate resilience in the region.

As part of the Wilmington District in the US Army Corps of Engineers, Clemons Pond Dam plays a vital role in the local ecosystem along the TR-MITCHELL SWAMP river or stream. With its strategic location and design, the dam not only offers recreational benefits but also contributes to water conservation efforts in the area. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Clemons Pond Dam stands as a testament to responsible dam management and the importance of balancing human needs with environmental considerations.

Year Completed

1965

Dam Length

666

Dam Height

9

River Or Stream

TR-MITCHELL SWAMP

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

11

Nid Storage

50

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

9
       
Seasonal Comparison

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Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No 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

High
Dams 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.