Beaverdam Millpond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Beaverdam Millpond Dam, located in Darlington, South Carolina, is a historic structure completed in 1800 with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

The earth dam stands at a height of 7 feet and has a length of 350 feet, creating a reservoir with a storage capacity of 188 acre-feet. The dam is situated on Beaverdam Creek and is regulated by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control.

Despite its age and historical significance, Beaverdam Millpond Dam is facing significant hazard potential and poor condition assessment. The last inspection in July 2018 revealed its deteriorating state, prompting concerns about its safety and structural integrity. The dam is classified as having a moderate risk level, and there are no emergency action plans or inundation maps prepared for potential disasters.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Beaverdam Millpond Dam presents a unique case study of balancing historical preservation with modern safety and environmental concerns. Its poor condition assessment and significant hazard potential highlight the importance of proactive management and maintenance to ensure the safety of surrounding communities and the preservation of this historical landmark. As climate change continues to impact water resources and infrastructure, the future of Beaverdam Millpond Dam underscores the ongoing need for sustainable management practices and risk assessment in the face of evolving environmental challenges.

Year Completed

1800

Dam Length

350

Dam Height

7

River Or Stream

BEAVERDAM CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

35

Nid Storage

188

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

7
       
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.