Prestwood Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Prestwood Lake Dam, located in Darlington, South Carolina, is a privately owned structure regulated by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control.
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Summary
Built in 1895, this earth dam stands at a height of 15 feet and spans a length of 400 feet, with a storage capacity of 4032 acre-feet. Primarily used for recreation, the dam also serves as a water supply source, reflecting its importance in both leisure and resource management.
Despite its age, Prestwood Lake Dam has undergone regular inspections, with the most recent assessment in January 2019 rating its condition as fair. The dam poses a high hazard potential, with a very high risk assessment score of 1, indicating the need for effective risk management measures. Although no emergency action plan (EAP) has been prepared or updated recently, the dam's owners are advised to prioritize the safety of the surrounding community by adhering to guidelines and conducting necessary preparations for potential emergencies.
With its historical significance and vital role in recreational activities and water supply, Prestwood Lake Dam stands as a key structure in Darlington, South Carolina. As climate change continues to impact water resources, ensuring the safety and proper maintenance of dams like Prestwood Lake is crucial in safeguarding communities and preserving the environment for future generations.
Year Completed |
1895 |
Dam Length |
400 |
Dam Height |
15 |
River Or Stream |
BLACK CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
218 |
Nid Storage |
4032 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
15 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Black Creek Near Hartsville
|
142cfs |
Black Creek Near Mcbee
|
128cfs |
Lynches River Near Bishopville
|
425cfs |
Black Creek Near Quinby
|
376cfs |
Pee Dee River Nr Bennettsville
|
2500cfs |
Lynches River At Effingham
|
852cfs |
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.
Prestwood Lake Dam