Mary M Bradley Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Lois Lockhart Dam J P Kneece Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Mary M Bradley Dam, located in Aiken, South Carolina, is a privately owned earth dam built in 1960 for recreational purposes along Gully Creek.
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Summary
Standing at a height of 17 feet and spanning 560 feet in length, the dam has a storage capacity of 76 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 56 acre-feet. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment in 2017 rated it as poor, indicating a need for maintenance or rehabilitation.
The dam, under the regulatory authority of SC DHEC, is inspected every five years to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations. With a limited spillway capacity and no outlet gates, the dam poses a lower risk of failure, but continuous monitoring and maintenance are essential to prevent potential hazards. Although the dam is primarily used for recreational purposes, its importance in water resource management cannot be overlooked, especially in the context of climate change and the increasing need for sustainable water infrastructure.
As a pivotal structure in the Savannah District, Mary M Bradley Dam serves as a vital component of the local water system, contributing to the conservation and management of water resources in the region. Its significance lies not only in providing recreational opportunities but also in highlighting the importance of effective dam management and maintenance to ensure the safety and sustainability of water infrastructure in the face of changing climatic conditions.
Year Completed |
1960 |
Dam Length |
560 |
Dam Height |
17 |
River Or Stream |
GULLY CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
10 |
Nid Storage |
76 |
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.
Mary M Bradley Dam