Fort Pond Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Rast Pond Dam Bignon Pond Dam
Last Updated: January 12, 2026
Fort Pond Dam, located in Lexington, South Carolina, on Cedar Creek, was completed in 1910 for the primary purpose of recreation.
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Summary
This private earth dam, with a height of 16.5 feet and a length of 240 feet, offers a storage capacity of 558 acre-feet and a surface area of 66.7 acres. Despite its historical significance and recreational value, Fort Pond Dam poses a high hazard potential and its condition was assessed as unsatisfactory during the last inspection in February 2021.
Managed by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (SC DHEC), Fort Pond Dam is subject to state regulation, permitting, inspection, and enforcement. The dam's association with the Savannah District of the US Army Corps of Engineers ensures adherence to safety standards and guidelines. However, the dam's high hazard potential underscores the importance of regular maintenance and risk management measures to mitigate any potential threats to downstream communities and the environment.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the significance of Fort Pond Dam in the local ecosystem and the potential risks it poses is crucial. With its historical legacy and recreational importance, proactive measures and strategies should be implemented to ensure the safety and integrity of this structure for future generations. As advocates for sustainable water management practices, staying informed and engaged in the ongoing maintenance and monitoring of Fort Pond Dam can help safeguard its role in providing recreational opportunities while minimizing potential hazards.
Year Completed |
1910 |
Dam Length |
240 |
Dam Height |
16.5 |
River Or Stream |
CEDAR CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
66.7 |
Nid Storage |
558 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
17 |
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.
Fort Pond Dam