Small Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Small Dam, also known as Burdick Pond, is a privately-owned recreational earth dam located in Laurens, South Carolina.


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Summary

Constructed in 1970 by the USDA NRCS, this dam stands at a height of 28 feet and spans a length of 260 feet, providing a storage capacity of 222 acre-feet. The primary purpose of Small Dam is for recreational activities, offering a serene spot for fishing, boating, and enjoying nature.

Despite its low hazard potential, Small Dam is currently in poor condition, as indicated by a 2017 assessment. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, presenting a moderate risk level that may require closer monitoring and potential risk management measures in the future. The dam is regulated by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) and undergoes regular state inspections to ensure its safety and compliance with regulatory standards.

With its picturesque setting along the TR-Warrior Creek, Small Dam serves as a vital water resource for the local community while also providing a recreational haven for outdoor enthusiasts. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the maintenance and upkeep of dams like Small Dam will be crucial in ensuring their safety and reliability for future generations to enjoy.

Year Completed

1970

Dam Length

260

Dam Height

28

River Or Stream

TR-WARRIOR CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

15

Nid Storage

222

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

28
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.