Raley Millpond Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Judy Latham Dam Dew Fresh Pond 2 Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Situated in Kershaw, South Carolina, the Raley Millpond Dam stands as a testament to engineering excellence since its completion in 1901.
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Summary
This private-owned Earth dam, with a height of 24 feet and a length of 625 feet, serves primarily for recreational purposes along the scenic Buffalo Creek. With a storage capacity of 520 acre-feet and a surface area of 100 acres, the dam offers a tranquil setting for water resource and climate enthusiasts to appreciate the beauty of nature.
Despite being categorized as having a low hazard potential, the Raley Millpond Dam is subject to regular state inspections, ensuring its structural integrity and compliance with regulatory standards set by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC). The dam's condition remains unrated, and although an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) is not yet prepared, the frequent inspections every five years serve to mitigate any potential risks associated with the dam.
For those interested in the history and significance of water resource management, the Raley Millpond Dam provides a fascinating glimpse into the intersection of engineering ingenuity and environmental stewardship. As a vital component of the local landscape, this historic dam continues to play a crucial role in providing both recreational opportunities and water resource management in the region, underscoring the importance of sustainable infrastructure development for future generations.
Year Completed |
1901 |
Dam Length |
625 |
Dam Height |
24 |
River Or Stream |
BUFFALO CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
100 |
Nid Storage |
520 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
24 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Black Creek Near Mcbee
|
108cfs |
Black Creek Near Hartsville
|
121cfs |
Lynches River Near Bishopville
|
443cfs |
Wateree River Nr. Camden
|
1700cfs |
Rocky Creek At Great Falls
|
17cfs |
Waxhaw Creek At Sr1103 Near Jackson
|
1cfs |
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.
Raley Millpond Dam