River Ridge Farms Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: James Albergotti Dam Genoa Group Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
River Ridge Farms Dam, located in Orangeburg, South Carolina, is a private earth dam constructed in 1970 for recreational purposes along the Fourmile Creek.
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Summary
With a height of 16 feet and a length of 980 feet, the dam boasts a storage capacity of 102 acre-feet, providing a serene surface area of 16 acres for outdoor activities. Despite its fair condition assessment as of July 2017, the dam poses a low hazard potential with a very high risk assessment rating, requiring regular inspections every 5 years to ensure safety and stability.
Managed by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (SC DHEC) and falling under state jurisdiction, River Ridge Farms Dam stands as a testament to the importance of water resource management and climate resilience in the region. While primarily serving recreational purposes, the dam's controlled spillway design and buttress core type demonstrate a commitment to safety and environmental protection. With its tranquil surroundings and historical significance, this dam is not only a key feature of the local landscape but also a vital element in the broader ecosystem of the area.
As climate change continues to impact water resources and infrastructure nationwide, River Ridge Farms Dam serves as a reminder of the need for proactive risk management measures and emergency preparedness. With a low hazard potential but a very high risk assessment rating, ongoing maintenance and monitoring are essential to ensure the dam's continued functionality and safety for the surrounding community. As enthusiasts of water resources and climate resilience, it is crucial to appreciate and support efforts to maintain and enhance structures like River Ridge Farms Dam for future generations to enjoy and benefit from.
Year Completed |
1970 |
Dam Length |
980 |
Dam Height |
16 |
River Or Stream |
FOURMILE CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
16 |
Nid Storage |
102 |
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 Bamberg
|
906cfs |
South Fork Edisto River Near Cope
|
838cfs |
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.
River Ridge Farms Dam