Maxine Weathersby Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Hartley Pond Dam Millers Pond Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Maxine Weathersby Dam, located in Aiken, South Carolina, stands as a testament to human ingenuity and the intersection of water resource management and climate considerations.
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Summary
Completed in 1951, this earth dam serves as a recreational hub, offering visitors a serene escape amidst the beauty of Abrams Branch. With a height of 17 feet and a length of 870 feet, the dam boasts a storage capacity of 81 acre-feet, providing ample space for outdoor enjoyment.
Despite its historical significance and recreational value, Maxine Weathersby Dam faces challenges in terms of its structural integrity. A recent inspection in July 2017 revealed a poor condition assessment, prompting concerns about its long-term viability. With a low hazard potential but a very high risk assessment ranking, there is a pressing need for proactive risk management measures to ensure the safety and sustainability of this vital water infrastructure.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts, we must advocate for the preservation and maintenance of dams like Maxine Weathersby Dam. By staying informed about its condition, engaging with regulatory agencies like SC DHEC, and supporting efforts to enhance its resilience to climate impacts, we can contribute to the protection of this valuable resource for future generations of recreationists and environmental stewards.
Year Completed |
1951 |
Dam Length |
870 |
Dam Height |
17 |
River Or Stream |
ABRAMS BRANCH |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
9 |
Nid Storage |
81 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
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.
Maxine Weathersby Dam