Lightizer Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Lightizer Pond Dam, located in Calhoun, South Carolina, was completed in 1942 and stands at a height of 22 feet with a length of 940 feet.


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Summary

The dam serves primarily for recreational purposes, providing a storage capacity of 129 acre-feet with a normal storage of 34 acre-feet. It is classified as an Earth dam with a Stone core and Soil foundation, overlooking the TR-Bates Mill Creek.

Managed by a private owner, the dam is regulated by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) and undergoes regular inspections, with the most recent assessment in September 2020 rating its condition as fair. Despite its high hazard potential, the dam has not undergone any significant modifications since its construction and does not fall under the jurisdiction of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Lightizer Pond Dam offers a glimpse into the intricate balance between human intervention and natural water systems. Its historical significance, recreational value, and regulatory oversight provide a fascinating case study in the management of water resources, highlighting the importance of sustainable practices in safeguarding our environment for future generations.

Year Completed

1942

Dam Length

940

Dam Height

22

River Or Stream

TR-BATES MILL CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

6

Nid Storage

129

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

22
       
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.