Staley Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 25, 2025

Staley Pond Dam, located in Calhoun, South Carolina, stands as a testament to engineering ingenuity since its completion in 1890.


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Summary

With a primary purpose of recreation, this earth dam stretches 590 feet in length and reaches a height of 18 feet, creating a storage capacity of 94 acre-feet. Situated on the banks of the CAW CAW SWAMP, this dam offers a serene oasis for water enthusiasts seeking outdoor activities.

Maintained by private owners, Staley Pond Dam is regulated by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC), ensuring compliance with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement measures. Despite its fair condition assessment in 2017, the dam poses a low hazard potential with a moderate risk assessment rating of 3. Emergency action plans are in place, although details on their preparedness and adherence to guidelines remain unspecified.

As a critical infrastructure for water resource management and climate resilience, Staley Pond Dam serves as a valuable asset for the local community while highlighting the importance of regulatory oversight to mitigate potential risks. Its historical significance and recreational offerings make it a destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts looking to explore the beauty of South Carolina's natural landscapes.

Year Completed

1890

Dam Length

590

Dam Height

18

River Or Stream

CAW CAW SWAMP

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

12

Nid Storage

94

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

18
       
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.