Helen Kirkley Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Drakes Pond Dam Vida Polston Dam
Last Updated: December 15, 2025
Helen Kirkley Dam, located in Marlboro, South Carolina, is a privately owned earth dam primarily used for recreation.
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Summary
Built in 1971 by the USDA NRCS, this dam stands at a height of 26 feet and has a length of 390 feet. With a storage capacity of 137 acre-feet, the dam is situated on the TR-THREE CREEKS river or stream.
Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, the dam's risk assessment is rated as moderate. The dam has uncontrolled spillways and outlet gates, with a condition assessment that is currently not rated. Although the dam meets state regulatory standards and receives regular inspections, there is room for improvement in terms of emergency action plans and risk management measures.
Overall, Helen Kirkley Dam serves as a recreational attraction in the area, providing opportunities for activities such as fishing and boating. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is important to stay informed about the condition and risk level of dams like Helen Kirkley Dam to ensure the safety of both the environment and local communities.
Year Completed |
1971 |
Dam Length |
390 |
Dam Height |
26 |
River Or Stream |
TR-THREE CREEKS |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
11 |
Nid Storage |
137 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
26 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Pee Dee River Nr Bennettsville
|
2400cfs |
Black Creek Near Quinby
|
261cfs |
Pee Dee River At Peedee
|
2890cfs |
Pee Dee River Below Pee Dee
|
2860cfs |
Big Shoe Heel Creek Nr Laurinburg
|
64cfs |
Lumber River Near Maxton
|
273cfs |
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.
Helen Kirkley Dam