Baker Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Baker Pond Dam, also known as Bakers Lake Dam, is a privately owned structure located in Aiken, South Carolina.


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Summary

Built in 1962 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam serves multiple purposes, including fire protection, stock, and small fish pond management, as well as recreational activities. With a height of 25 feet and a length of 410 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 118 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 12 acres.

Managed by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC), Baker Pond Dam is classified as high hazard potential due to its condition assessment being rated as fair. Regular inspections are conducted, with the last one taking place in December 2019. While the dam has an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, there are no associated locks. Despite its moderate risk rating, the dam currently meets safety guidelines and does not have an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) prepared.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will find Baker Pond Dam to be a fascinating structure that plays a vital role in local water management. With its diverse uses and regulatory oversight by SC DHEC, the dam serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining and monitoring our water infrastructure to ensure public safety and environmental sustainability.

Year Completed

1962

Dam Length

410

Dam Height

25

River Or Stream

HIGHTOWER CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

12

Nid Storage

118

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

25
       
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.