Richard Rast Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Richard Rast Dam, located in Calhoun, South Carolina, is a privately owned structure that serves primarily for recreation purposes.
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Summary
Completed in 1966, this earth dam stands at 17 feet high and stretches 375 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 125 acre-feet. Situated on the TR-HALFWAY SWAMP CREEK, the dam is regulated by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC), ensuring regular inspections and enforcement of safety measures.
Despite its low hazard potential and fair condition assessment, Richard Rast Dam provides an essential water resource for the surrounding area, maintaining a normal storage capacity of 70 acre-feet and covering an 11-acre surface area. With its buttress core type and unlisted foundation, the dam offers a reliable source for recreational activities while also contributing to the overall water management in the region. The dam's last inspection in March 2017 revealed its compliance with safety standards, further highlighting its importance for both local residents and visitors.
Managed by private owners, Richard Rast Dam continues to play a vital role in water resource management and climate resilience efforts in South Carolina. With its strategic location and regulated status, the dam not only provides recreational opportunities but also contributes to the overall safety and stability of the area. As climate enthusiasts and water resource advocates, recognizing the significance of structures like Richard Rast Dam is crucial in safeguarding our natural resources and promoting sustainable practices for the future.
Year Completed |
1966 |
Dam Length |
375 |
Dam Height |
17 |
River Or Stream |
TR-HALFWAY SWAMP CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
11 |
Nid Storage |
125 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
17 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
North Fork Edisto River At Orangeburg
|
900cfs |
Wateree R. Bl Eastover
|
2400cfs |
Santee River Near Pineville
|
615cfs |
South Fork Edisto River Near Bamberg
|
785cfs |
South Fork Edisto River Near Cope
|
736cfs |
South Fork Edisto River Near Denmark
|
741cfs |
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.
Richard Rast Dam
Landing Lane Calhoun County