Clarkson Pond Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Duffies Pond Dam Westons Pond Dam
Last Updated: December 9, 2025
Clarkson Pond Dam, located in Richland, South Carolina, is a privately-owned structure constructed in 1965 primarily for recreation purposes.
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Summary
This Earth-type dam stands at a height of 8.1 feet and stretches 1250 feet in length, impounding Cedar Creek to create a surface area of 52.4 acres. With a normal storage capacity of 105 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 321 acre-feet, this low-hazard dam provides valuable water resources for the surrounding area.
Managed by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC), Clarkson Pond Dam is subject to state regulation, permitting, inspection, and enforcement. Despite being not rated for its condition and lacking an emergency action plan, the dam's hazard potential is considered low. With no associated structures or federal agency involvement, this dam serves as a key component of the local landscape, offering recreational opportunities while also contributing to water resource management and conservation efforts in the region.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Clarkson Pond Dam represents a fascinating case study in private dam ownership and management. As a recreational facility with limited risk factors, this structure highlights the importance of state oversight and regulatory measures in ensuring the safety and sustainability of water infrastructure. With its historical significance and ecological impact on Cedar Creek, Clarkson Pond Dam serves as a valuable asset for both local communities and environmental conservation initiatives in South Carolina.
Year Completed |
1965 |
Dam Length |
1250 |
Dam Height |
8.1 |
River Or Stream |
CEDAR CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
52.4 |
Nid Storage |
321 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
8 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Gills Creek At Columbia
|
52cfs |
Wateree R. Bl Eastover
|
2400cfs |
Congaree River At Columbia
|
5210cfs |
Smith Branch At North Main St At Columbia
|
9cfs |
Saluda River Near Columbia
|
2620cfs |
Saluda River Below Lk Murray Dam Nr Columbia
|
2540cfs |
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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Bluff Campground
|
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Weston Lake Military - Fort Jackson
|
Clarkson Pond Dam