Lexington Old Mill Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 7, 2025

Lexington Old Mill Pond Dam, located in Lexington, South Carolina, is a historic structure completed in 1900 with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

This private dam on TWELVEMILE CREEK stands at a height of 24 feet, with a length of 475 feet, and a storage capacity of 440 acre-feet. The dam, made primarily of earth and stone, covers a surface area of 29 acres and serves as a source of water supply in addition to its recreational function.

Despite its scenic beauty and recreational value, the dam presents a high hazard potential and has been assessed as unsatisfactory in condition. The last inspection in October 2016 raised concerns about safety, prompting a biennial inspection frequency. The dam's emergency action plan (EAP) status is unclear, indicating a need for updated risk assessment and management measures. With its location in a residential area, the dam's safety and maintenance are crucial for public safety and environmental protection.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Lexington Old Mill Pond Dam offers a fascinating study in historic dam engineering, recreational significance, and the challenges of maintaining aging infrastructure. With its proximity to TWELVEMILE CREEK and its role in water supply, the dam's condition and risk factors underscore the importance of regular inspections, emergency preparedness, and sustainable management practices to ensure the safety and integrity of this iconic structure for future generations.

Year Completed

1900

Dam Length

475

Dam Height

24

River Or Stream

TWELVEMILE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

29

Nid Storage

440

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

24
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

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.