Ronald Dew Dam, located in Aiken, South Carolina, is a privately owned structure that serves as a recreational site. Built in 1960, this earth dam stands at a height of 14 feet and stretches 325 feet in length, creating a reservoir with a storage capacity of 109 acre-feet. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam's condition has been assessed as poor, emphasizing the need for maintenance and upgrades to ensure its long-term safety and functionality.

The dam, situated on Goose Platter Creek, falls under the jurisdiction of the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (SC DHEC). While it is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by state authorities, the dam's risk assessment indicates a moderate level of risk. With a history of poor condition assessment and a lack of emergency preparedness measures in place, the management of this dam requires attention to mitigate potential hazards and safeguard the surrounding community and environment.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the intricacies of structures like Ronald Dew Dam is crucial for preserving the balance between water management, recreational activities, and ecological sustainability. By advocating for improved maintenance practices, risk management measures, and emergency preparedness protocols, we can contribute to the resilience of our water infrastructure and ensure the safety of dams like Ronald Dew for future generations.