Adams Pond Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Burnsides Pond Dam Pinewood Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 12, 2025
Adams Pond Dam, located in Richland, South Carolina, is a private earth dam built in 1946 primarily for recreational purposes.
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Summary
Standing at a height of 10 feet and spanning 1000 feet in length, this dam serves as a key feature of the Mill Creek, offering a serene environment for water resource and climate enthusiasts to enjoy. With a storage capacity of 167 acre-feet and a surface area of 27 acres, Adams Pond Dam provides a tranquil setting for outdoor activities and wildlife habitat.
Despite its picturesque appeal, Adams Pond Dam has been identified as having a significant hazard potential and an unsatisfactory condition assessment. The dam is regulated and inspected by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control, ensuring that necessary maintenance and safety measures are upheld. The last inspection in July 2019 revealed the need for improvements, highlighting the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance to mitigate risks and ensure the safety of the surrounding community and ecosystem.
As climate change continues to impact water resources, the maintenance and regulation of dams like Adams Pond Dam become increasingly crucial. With its historic significance and recreational value, Adams Pond Dam serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between human intervention and environmental preservation. By adhering to regulatory standards and implementing necessary upgrades, this dam can continue to provide a safe and enjoyable environment for water resource and climate enthusiasts for years to come.
Year Completed |
1946 |
Dam Length |
1000 |
Dam Height |
10 |
River Or Stream |
MILL CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
27 |
Nid Storage |
167 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
10 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Gills Creek At Columbia
|
39cfs |
Congaree River At Columbia
|
2990cfs |
Smith Branch At North Main St At Columbia
|
3cfs |
Saluda River Near Columbia
|
882cfs |
Saluda River Below Lk Murray Dam Nr Columbia
|
764cfs |
Wateree R. Bl Eastover
|
2400cfs |
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Longleaf Campground
|
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Weston Lake Military - Fort Jackson
|
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Bluff Campground
|
Adams Pond Dam