Graves Millpond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Graves Millpond Dam, located in Chesterfield, South Carolina, was completed in 1940 and serves as a recreational spot for water and climate enthusiasts alike.


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Summary

The earth dam, with a height of 14 feet and a length of 365 feet, creates a picturesque millpond on Little Black Creek, offering visitors a serene setting for fishing, boating, and wildlife observation. The dam has a maximum storage capacity of 188 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 73 acre-feet, covering a surface area of 24 acres.

Despite its historical significance and recreational value, Graves Millpond Dam is currently in poor condition, as reported during its last inspection in October 2017. The dam's hazard potential is assessed as low, with a moderate risk level of 3. While the dam is state regulated and inspected, there are no associated emergency action plans or risk management measures in place. With its deteriorating condition and moderate risk level, it is crucial for authorities to address the maintenance and safety concerns of Graves Millpond Dam to ensure the continued enjoyment and safety of visitors to this beloved recreational spot.

Year Completed

1940

Dam Length

365

Dam Height

14

River Or Stream

LITTLE BLACK CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

24

Nid Storage

188

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

14
       
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.