Priester Millpond Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Priester Millpond Dam in Orangeburg, South Carolina, stands as a historic structure built in 1900 primarily for recreational purposes.
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Summary
The dam, constructed with earth and stone materials, reaches a height of 12 feet and spans 425 feet in length. With a storage capacity of 167 acre-feet and a surface area of 22 acres, the dam serves as a picturesque backdrop to the surrounding Bolen Mill Creek.
Maintained by private ownership and regulated by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC), Priester Millpond Dam is inspected regularly to ensure its structural integrity and safety. The dam holds a significant hazard potential but is currently assessed to be in fair condition as of the most recent inspection in January 2021. While no spillway or outlet gates are reported, the dam's emergency action plan status and risk assessment measures are not provided in the available data.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Priester Millpond Dam presents a unique blend of historical significance and recreational value against the backdrop of South Carolina's natural landscape. Its presence along Bolen Mill Creek not only adds to the area's allure but also underscores the importance of regular inspection and maintenance to mitigate potential hazards associated with aging infrastructure.
Year Completed |
1900 |
Dam Length |
425 |
Dam Height |
12 |
River Or Stream |
BOLEN MILL CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
22 |
Nid Storage |
167 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
12 |
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.
Priester Millpond Dam