Bethea Pond Dam 1 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Bethea Pond Dam 2 Harpers Pond Dam
Last Updated: December 14, 2025
Bethea Pond Dam 1, located in Lancaster, South Carolina, was completed in 1953 and serves as a private recreational facility.
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Summary
The dam is classified as an Earth type with a height of 19 feet and a length of 405 feet. It has a storage capacity of 100 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 80 acre-feet. The dam is situated on TR-Bear Creek and is regulated by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (SC DHEC).
Despite its low hazard potential, Bethea Pond Dam 1 has been assessed as being in poor condition as of October 2017. The dam's inspection frequency is every 5 years, with the last inspection taking place in October 2017. The risk assessment for the dam is moderate, with a DSAC (Dam Safety Action Classification) of 3. While the dam does not have an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) prepared, it is important for stakeholders to closely monitor and address any potential risks associated with the dam to ensure the safety of nearby communities.
With its unique design and historical significance, Bethea Pond Dam 1 presents an opportunity for water resource and climate enthusiasts to engage in discussions surrounding dam safety and risk management. As a privately owned structure, it is essential for the owners to work closely with regulatory agencies and stakeholders to address the poor condition assessment and ensure the continued safety and integrity of the dam for both recreational and environmental purposes.
Year Completed |
1953 |
Dam Length |
405 |
Dam Height |
19 |
River Or Stream |
TR-BEAR CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
10 |
Nid Storage |
100 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
19 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Bethea Pond Dam 1