J C Shecut Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

J C Shecut Dam, located in Orangeburg, South Carolina, is a private-owned structure primarily designed for recreation purposes.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Completed in 1955, this earth-type dam stands at a height of 14 feet and spans a length of 1500 feet, with a maximum storage capacity of 124 acre-feet. The dam overlooks the Early Branch river/stream and is regulated by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC).

With a low hazard potential and fair condition assessment, J C Shecut Dam poses minimal risk to the surrounding area. Despite being uncontrolled, the spillway type, and the overall structure meets regulatory standards through regular inspections conducted every five years. The risk assessment for this dam is rated as moderate, with emergency preparedness measures in place to mitigate potential hazards.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, J C Shecut Dam serves as a vital recreational spot in South Carolina, offering a serene environment overlooking the Early Branch river/stream. While maintaining a low hazard potential, this dam provides both environmental and leisure benefits to the local community. With its moderate risk assessment, regular inspections, and regulatory compliance, J C Shecut Dam stands as a testament to responsible water resource management in the region.

Year Completed

1955

Dam Length

1500

Dam Height

14

River Or Stream

EARLY BRANCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

21

Nid Storage

124

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

14
       
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.