Hermitage Mill Pond Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Sinclair Pond Dam Kendall Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Hermitage Mill Pond Dam, located in Kershaw, South Carolina, stands as a historic structure completed in 1935 with a primary purpose of recreation.
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Summary
This earth dam, standing at 16 feet tall and stretching 2200 feet in length, holds a normal storage capacity of 1390 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 5790 acre-feet. Situated on the Big Pine Tree Creek, the dam's poor condition assessment and high hazard potential highlight the urgent need for maintenance and repair to ensure the safety of the surrounding community and environment.
Despite being privately owned, the Hermitage Mill Pond Dam falls under state jurisdiction in South Carolina and is regulated by the state's Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC). The dam's last inspection in June 2020 revealed its deteriorating state, prompting concerns over its structural integrity and potential risks. With a high hazard potential designation and poor condition assessment, the dam poses a significant threat that must be addressed promptly through necessary repairs and maintenance to mitigate any potential hazards and ensure the safety of the area's residents and water resources.
As enthusiasts of water resources and climate, monitoring and advocating for the proper maintenance and upkeep of dams like Hermitage Mill Pond Dam is crucial to prevent disasters and preserve the integrity of our natural surroundings. By staying informed and involved in the regulation and inspection processes, we can help safeguard our water resources and mitigate the risks posed by aging infrastructure like the Hermitage Mill Pond Dam.
Year Completed |
1935 |
Dam Length |
2200 |
Dam Height |
16 |
River Or Stream |
BIG PINE TREE CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
397 |
Nid Storage |
5790 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
16 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Wateree River Nr. Camden
|
2170cfs |
Lynches River Near Bishopville
|
425cfs |
Black Creek Near Hartsville
|
142cfs |
Wateree R. Bl Eastover
|
2400cfs |
Gills Creek At Columbia
|
76cfs |
Black Creek Near Mcbee
|
128cfs |
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.
Hermitage Mill Pond Dam