J A Moss Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
J A Moss Dam, located in Orangeburg, South Carolina, was completed in 1875 and stands at a height of 16 feet with a length of 570 feet.
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Summary
This Earth-type dam serves primarily for recreation, offering a serene backdrop for water resource and climate enthusiasts to enjoy. With a maximum storage capacity of 241 acre-feet and a normal storage of 114 acre-feet, the dam provides a surface area of 32 acres for leisure activities.
While the dam has a low hazard potential, its condition assessment was deemed unsatisfactory during the last inspection in July 2017. Despite this, the risk assessment remains moderate, indicating the need for ongoing maintenance and management measures to ensure the safety and integrity of the structure. As a state-regulated dam with permits for inspection, enforcement, and permitting in place, the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control oversees the regulatory aspects of J A Moss Dam, making it a crucial focal point for water resource management in the region.
For those interested in the intersection of water resources and climate, J A Moss Dam serves as a valuable case study in balancing recreational benefits with safety and regulatory oversight. As the Savannah District of the US Army Corps of Engineers monitors the dam, ongoing assessments and risk management measures will be essential to maintain the integrity of this historic structure and ensure its continued contribution to the local ecosystem and community.
Year Completed |
1875 |
Dam Length |
570 |
Dam Height |
16 |
River Or Stream |
GREAT BRANCH |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
32 |
Nid Storage |
241 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
16 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
North Fork Edisto River At Orangeburg
|
950cfs |
South Fork Edisto River Near Cope
|
838cfs |
South Fork Edisto River Near Bamberg
|
906cfs |
South Fork Edisto River Near Denmark
|
805cfs |
Wateree R. Bl Eastover
|
2400cfs |
Gills Creek At Columbia
|
76cfs |
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.
J A Moss Dam