Laughlin Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Laughlin Pond Dam, located in Aiken, South Carolina, is a private dam with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

Built in 1945 by USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 20.5 feet and spans 750 feet in length, creating a serene 16.7-acre surface area for visitors to enjoy. With a normal storage capacity of 126 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 190 acre-feet, Laughlin Pond Dam offers ample water resources for recreational activities such as fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing.

Despite its fair condition assessment and high hazard potential, Laughlin Pond Dam is maintained and regulated by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC). The dam has uncontrolled spillways and outlets, posing a moderate risk level (3) for potential hazards. Regular inspections are conducted, with the last assessment completed in February 2021, ensuring the safety and structural integrity of this important water resource in the region.

As a vital part of the local ecosystem, Laughlin Pond Dam provides not only recreational opportunities but also serves as a critical water source for the surrounding area. With its historical significance and ongoing regulatory oversight, Laughlin Pond Dam stands as a testament to the intersection of water resource management, climate resilience, and public safety in South Carolina.

Year Completed

1945

Dam Length

750

Dam Height

20.5

River Or Stream

PURVIS BRANCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

16.7

Nid Storage

190

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

21
       
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.