Powell Pond Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Hershberger Pond Dam Dan Bilton Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Powell Pond Dam, located in Abbeville, South Carolina, is a privately owned structure that serves primarily for recreational purposes.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Built in 1960, this earth dam stands at a height of 23 feet and has a length of 380 feet, providing a storage capacity of 258 acre-feet. Despite its age, the dam's condition is assessed as poor, with a significant hazard potential, as indicated by the last inspection conducted in May 2018.
Managed by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC), Powell Pond Dam is subject to state regulations, permitting, inspection, and enforcement. The dam, situated on TR-PARK CREEK, falls under the jurisdiction of the Savannah District of the US Army Corps of Engineers. The dam's emergency action plan was last revised in June 2019, highlighting the importance of preparedness and risk management in the face of potential hazards.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Powell Pond Dam offers a case study in the challenges of maintaining aging infrastructure to ensure public safety and environmental protection. The dam's condition assessment and hazard potential underscore the need for ongoing monitoring and maintenance to mitigate risks and safeguard the surrounding community. As climate change continues to impact water resources, understanding and addressing the vulnerabilities of structures like Powell Pond Dam are crucial for sustainable water management in the future.
Year Completed |
1960 |
Dam Length |
380 |
Dam Height |
23 |
River Or Stream |
TR-PARK CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
23 |
Nid Storage |
258 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
23 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Rocky River Nr Starr
|
58cfs |
Saluda River Near Ware Shoals
|
503cfs |
Little River Near Mt. Carmel
|
83cfs |
South Rabon Creek Near Gray Court
|
17cfs |
Saluda River Near Williamston
|
458cfs |
Reedy River Above Fork Shoals
|
116cfs |
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.
Powell Pond Dam