Park Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Park Pond Dam is a privately owned structure located in Chesterfield, South Carolina, along Cedar Creek.


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Summary

Built in 1970, this earth dam stands at a height of 13 feet and stretches 370 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 83 acre-feet. While primarily serving a recreational purpose, the dam is also regulated by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations.

Despite its low hazard potential, Park Pond Dam has been assessed as being in poor condition as of October 2017. This raises concerns about its long-term stability and ability to withstand potential climate-related challenges, such as increased precipitation or extreme weather events. With a surface area of 10 acres, the dam poses a risk to surrounding areas in the event of a breach or failure, highlighting the importance of ongoing maintenance and risk management measures to mitigate potential hazards.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts monitor the state of Park Pond Dam, it becomes evident that proactive measures are needed to address its poor condition and ensure its resilience in the face of changing environmental conditions. Collaborative efforts between private owners, regulatory agencies, and local stakeholders will be essential in safeguarding this recreational structure and protecting the surrounding community from potential risks associated with dam failure. By prioritizing safety and sustainability, Park Pond Dam can continue to provide recreational opportunities while maintaining its integrity in the face of climate-related challenges.

Year Completed

1970

Dam Length

370

Dam Height

13

River Or Stream

CEDAR CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

10

Nid Storage

83

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

13
       
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.