Garvins Millpond Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: L B Williams Dam Paul Swartz Pond Dam
Last Updated: January 12, 2026
Garvins Millpond Dam, located in Aiken, South Carolina, was completed in 1948 for the primary purpose of recreation.
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Summary
This privately owned earth dam stands at a height of 11 feet and has a length of 450 feet, creating a storage capacity of 59 acre-feet. Situated on Dean Swamp Creek, this dam is regulated by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations.
Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, Garvins Millpond Dam has been assessed as being in poor condition as of August 2017. The inspection frequency for this dam is set at 5 years, with the last assessment conducted in 2017. While currently not meeting the guidelines for an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) and lacking updated inundation maps, the dam continues to provide recreational opportunities for the local community. With its historical significance and environmental impact on the surrounding area, Garvins Millpond Dam remains a notable feature in the water resource and climate landscape of South Carolina.
As enthusiasts of water resources and climate, understanding the role of Garvins Millpond Dam in managing water levels and providing recreational benefits offers a glimpse into the intricate world of dam infrastructure. With its unique design and historical significance, this earth dam serves as a focal point for both environmental conservation efforts and recreational enjoyment along Dean Swamp Creek. Keeping a close eye on its condition and regulatory oversight ensures a sustainable future for this important water resource feature in South Carolina.
Year Completed |
1948 |
Dam Length |
450 |
Dam Height |
11 |
River Or Stream |
DEAN SWAMP CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
11 |
Nid Storage |
59 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
11 |
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.
Garvins Millpond Dam