Webb Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Webb Dam, located in Aiken, South Carolina, serves as a recreational water resource along Bear Island Creek.


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Summary

Built in 1960, this private earth dam stands at a height of 21 feet and stretches 1895 feet in length. With a storage capacity of 84 acre-feet, it offers opportunities for outdoor activities on its 15-acre surface area. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam's condition was assessed as poor in 2017, signaling a need for maintenance and improvements to ensure its long-term safety and functionality.

Managed by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control, Webb Dam is subject to state regulations, permitting, inspection, and enforcement. Although its primary purpose is for recreation, the dam's condition assessment and risk assessment indicate moderate risks that need to be addressed. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and lacks associated structures, presenting a unique challenge for risk management and emergency preparedness. With the involvement of the local community and stakeholders, efforts to enhance the dam's safety and resilience can help preserve its recreational value while mitigating potential risks associated with its maintenance.

As a vital water resource in the region, Webb Dam plays a significant role in providing recreational opportunities for residents and visitors alike. It is important for water resource and climate enthusiasts to stay informed about the dam's condition and risk management measures to ensure the safety and sustainability of this valuable asset. By working together to address the dam's maintenance needs and implement effective risk mitigation strategies, stakeholders can safeguard its recreational benefits while protecting the surrounding environment from potential hazards.

Year Completed

1960

Dam Length

1895

Dam Height

21

River Or Stream

BEAR ISLAND CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

15

Nid Storage

84

Hazard Potential

Low

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.