C Keith Davis Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

C Keith Davis Dam, located in Orangeburg, South Carolina, is a privately owned earth dam with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

Completed in 1950, the dam stands at a height of 22 feet and spans 928 feet in length, providing a storage capacity of 272 acre-feet. The dam is situated on the TR-ROBERTS SWAMP river/stream and is regulated by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control.

Despite its low hazard potential, the dam is in poor condition as of its last inspection in July 2017. With a five-year inspection frequency, the dam requires attention to ensure its continued safety and functionality. The dam does not have an Emergency Action Plan prepared, and its risk assessment and management measures are currently unspecified. Additionally, there is no information available on the presence of spillways or locks associated with the dam.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, C Keith Davis Dam presents an intriguing case study of a privately owned recreational structure in need of maintenance and potential risk mitigation measures. With its historical significance dating back to the mid-20th century, the dam serves as a reminder of the importance of proactive dam management and safety protocols in the face of changing environmental conditions. As discussions around dam safety and regulation continue to evolve, the condition of C Keith Davis Dam highlights the ongoing challenges and responsibilities associated with managing water resources in a sustainable and resilient manner.

Year Completed

1950

Dam Length

928

Dam Height

22

River Or Stream

TR-ROBERTS SWAMP

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

16

Nid Storage

272

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

22
       
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.