Woodward Mill Pond Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Crawford Pond Dam Rogers Pond Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Woodward Mill Pond Dam, located in Chesterfield, South Carolina, was completed in 1890 and serves as a vital recreational resource in the area.
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Summary
Standing at a height of 14 feet and stretching 600 feet in length, this earth dam creates a reservoir with a storage capacity of 252 acre-feet. The dam is primarily used for recreation, providing visitors with opportunities for boating, fishing, and other water-based activities on the picturesque Little Black Creek.
Despite its age, Woodward Mill Pond Dam has been well-maintained, with a fair condition assessment as of November 2017 and a low hazard potential. The South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) oversees the regulation, inspection, and enforcement of this privately owned structure. The dam's emergency action plan (EAP) was last revised in 1982, and while the risk assessment and management measures are not specified, the dam continues to meet safety guidelines and standards to ensure the protection of surrounding communities and the environment.
With its historical significance and recreational importance, Woodward Mill Pond Dam stands as a testament to sustainable water resource management in South Carolina. As climate change continues to impact water availability and quality, this dam serves as a vital asset in providing both recreational opportunities and flood control measures for the region. As enthusiasts of water resources and climate stewardship, it is important to recognize and appreciate the value of structures like Woodward Mill Pond Dam in preserving and enhancing our natural environment for future generations.
Year Completed |
1890 |
Dam Length |
600 |
Dam Height |
14 |
River Or Stream |
LITTLE BLACK CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
28 |
Nid Storage |
252 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
14 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Black Creek Near Mcbee
|
108cfs |
Black Creek Near Hartsville
|
121cfs |
Pee Dee River Nr Bennettsville
|
2460cfs |
Pee Dee R Nr Rockingham
|
1830cfs |
Lynches River Near Bishopville
|
443cfs |
Rocky River Near Norwood
|
305cfs |
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.
Woodward Mill Pond Dam