Drafts Pond Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 9, 2025
Drafts Pond Dam, located in Richland, South Carolina, is a privately-owned earth dam completed in 1967 for the primary purpose of recreation.
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Summary
Standing at 7 feet tall and spanning 45 feet in length, this dam impounds Toms Creek, offering a surface area of 32 acres and a storage capacity of 154 acre-feet. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam is regulated by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control, ensuring that it undergoes regular inspections, permitting, and enforcement to maintain its safety and integrity.
The dam's condition is currently unrated, with the last inspection conducted in July 2016 and scheduled for every five years. Although it lacks an Emergency Action Plan and updated contact information, Drafts Pond Dam remains a vital part of the local recreational landscape, providing opportunities for fishing, boating, and wildlife observation. As a key feature of the Savannah District managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, the dam contributes to the region's water resource management while offering a serene retreat for outdoor enthusiasts and climate advocates alike.
With its tranquil waters and scenic surroundings, Drafts Pond Dam serves as a reminder of the importance of sustainable water resource practices in the face of changing climate patterns. As enthusiasts and stakeholders continue to monitor and support the dam's upkeep, its role in providing recreational opportunities and ecological benefits remains essential for the community and its connection to the broader efforts of water conservation and climate resilience.
Year Completed |
1967 |
Dam Length |
45 |
Dam Height |
7 |
River Or Stream |
TOMS CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
32 |
Nid Storage |
154 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
7 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Wateree R. Bl Eastover
|
2400cfs |
Gills Creek At Columbia
|
52cfs |
Congaree River At Columbia
|
5210cfs |
Smith Branch At North Main St At Columbia
|
9cfs |
Saluda River Near Columbia
|
2620cfs |
North Fork Edisto River At Orangeburg
|
819cfs |
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 |
|---|---|---|
Bluff Campground
|
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Longleaf Campground
|
||
Poinsett State Park
|
Drafts Pond Dam