Norris Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Cribbs Pond Dam Goodson Pond Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Norris Dam, located in Darlington, South Carolina, was completed in 1958 and serves as a vital recreational resource in the area.
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Summary
Designed by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 16 feet and has a length of 400 feet. With a storage capacity of 141 acre-feet and a surface area of 17 acres, Norris Dam provides opportunities for fishing, boating, and other outdoor activities for visitors to enjoy.
Despite its importance for recreation, Norris Dam has been assessed as being in poor condition with a high hazard potential. The dam is regulated by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control, which conducts inspections regularly to ensure its safety. It is crucial for the dam’s owners and regulators to work together to address any deficiencies and implement risk management measures to mitigate potential hazards and ensure the safety of surrounding communities.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is essential to monitor the condition of Norris Dam and advocate for necessary improvements to enhance its resilience in the face of changing environmental conditions. By staying informed and engaged in the management of this critical infrastructure, we can help protect both the dam and the natural resources it supports for future generations to enjoy.
Year Completed |
1958 |
Dam Length |
400 |
Dam Height |
16 |
River Or Stream |
TR-HURRICANE BRANCH |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
17 |
Nid Storage |
141 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
16 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Black Creek Near Quinby
|
376cfs |
Pee Dee River Nr Bennettsville
|
2500cfs |
Pee Dee River At Peedee
|
3390cfs |
Black Creek Near Hartsville
|
142cfs |
Pee Dee River Below Pee Dee
|
3450cfs |
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.
Norris Dam