Don Taylor Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 7, 2025

Don Taylor Dam, located in Kershaw, South Carolina, serves as a vital recreational resource for the community.


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Summary

Completed in 1972, this earth-type dam stands at a height of 19 feet and spans 570 feet in length, creating a storage capacity of 167 acre-feet. Despite its primary purpose for recreation, the dam is also state-regulated by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control, ensuring safety and compliance with inspection, permitting, and enforcement measures.

However, recent assessments have shown that the condition of Don Taylor Dam is poor, with a hazard potential rated as low and a moderate risk level. The last inspection in March 2017 highlighted the need for improvements to enhance the structural integrity and overall safety of the dam. With a risk management plan yet to be fully outlined, stakeholders and authorities must prioritize necessary measures to mitigate potential risks and safeguard the surrounding community and environment.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is crucial to monitor the maintenance and rehabilitation efforts of Don Taylor Dam to ensure its long-term sustainability. With its strategic location on TR-Horsepen Creek and under the Savannah District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, the dam plays a significant role in water management and flood control. By addressing the current poor condition and moderate risk assessment, stakeholders can work towards a resilient and secure infrastructure that prioritizes both recreational enjoyment and environmental conservation.

Year Completed

1972

Dam Length

570

Dam Height

19

River Or Stream

TR-HORSEPEN CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

12

Nid Storage

167

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

19
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.