Church Of The Redeemer Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Church of The Redeemer Dam, located in Orangeburg, South Carolina, stands as a testament to the vital role of water resources in providing recreational opportunities.


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Summary

Completed in 1920, this earth dam on Mill Branch serves primarily for recreation purposes, offering a serene getaway for enthusiasts in the area. With a height of 12 feet and a storage capacity of 108 acre-feet, the dam provides a picturesque surface area of 15 acres for visitors to enjoy.

Managed by private owners, Church of The Redeemer Dam is regulated by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC), ensuring compliance with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement requirements. Despite its high hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment remains unrated as of the last inspection in December 2019. While specific risk management measures are not detailed, the dam's emergency action plan (EAP) status and adherence to guidelines are yet to be confirmed, emphasizing the need for continued vigilance and preparedness.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts explore the historical significance and recreational value of Church of The Redeemer Dam, its role in the local ecosystem and community becomes increasingly apparent. With its stone core and soil foundation, the dam embodies a blend of natural and man-made elements that contribute to its enduring presence in the landscape. As efforts to assess and mitigate potential risks continue, the dam stands as a symbol of the delicate balance between harnessing water resources for human enjoyment and safeguarding against potential hazards in an ever-changing climate.

Year Completed

1920

Dam Length

1236

Dam Height

12

River Or Stream

MILL BRANCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

15

Nid Storage

108

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

12
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.