Lake Darpo Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Spring Lake Dam Chapman's Pond Dam
Last Updated: December 7, 2025
Lake Darpo Dam, located in Darlington, South Carolina, is a local government-owned structure primarily designed for recreational purposes.
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Summary
Completed in 1957, this earth dam stands at a height of 15 feet and stretches 634 feet in length, with a maximum storage capacity of 146 acre-feet. The dam overlooks Buckholtz Creek and boasts a surface area of 20 acres, providing a tranquil setting for water resource and climate enthusiasts to explore.
Despite its recreational allure, Lake Darpo Dam poses a high hazard potential, with a very high risk assessment rating. The dam is regulated by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC), which conducts regular inspections to ensure its safety and enforce necessary measures. While the condition assessment is currently not rated, the dam's emergency action plan status and risk management measures are not specified.
With its controlled spillway and scenic surroundings, Lake Darpo Dam serves as a vital water resource in the region. Its presence not only offers a recreational haven but also underscores the importance of proper maintenance and oversight to mitigate potential risks and ensure the safety of nearby communities and the environment. For those passionate about water resources and climate resilience, Lake Darpo Dam presents a compelling case study in balancing recreational benefits with the need for effective risk management strategies.
Year Completed |
1957 |
Dam Length |
634 |
Dam Height |
15 |
River Or Stream |
BUCKHOLTZ CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
20 |
Nid Storage |
146 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
15 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Pee Dee River Nr Bennettsville
|
2500cfs |
Black Creek Near Hartsville
|
142cfs |
Black Creek Near Quinby
|
376cfs |
Black Creek Near Mcbee
|
128cfs |
Lynches River Near Bishopville
|
425cfs |
Pee Dee River At Peedee
|
3390cfs |
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.
Lake Darpo Dam