Ben Smith Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 15, 2025
Ben Smith Dam, located in York, South Carolina, was completed in 1957 with the primary purpose of irrigation.
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Summary
This private-owned earth dam stands at a height of 30 feet and spans 350 feet in length, creating a reservoir with a storage capacity of 50 acre-feet. Despite its significant hazard potential and poor condition assessment, the dam is regularly inspected by the state regulatory agency, South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (SC DHEC), to ensure compliance with safety standards.
Situated on Morris Branch, a tributary of an unspecified river or stream, Ben Smith Dam not only serves as a crucial water resource for irrigation but also offers recreational opportunities for the local community. However, with an inadequate spillway width and no outlet gates listed, the dam poses potential risks in case of emergency situations. Despite these challenges, the dam's historical significance and impact on the surrounding area highlight the importance of continued maintenance and risk management measures to safeguard both the water supply and public safety.
As climate change continues to impact water resources and infrastructure, Ben Smith Dam stands as a symbol of the delicate balance between human needs and environmental conservation. With its outdated design and poor condition, the dam serves as a reminder of the urgent need for sustainable water management practices and investment in critical infrastructure to mitigate the effects of a changing climate. By addressing the dam's maintenance issues and implementing risk management strategies, stakeholders can ensure the long-term resilience of this vital water resource in the face of evolving environmental challenges.
Year Completed |
1957 |
Dam Length |
350 |
Dam Height |
30 |
River Or Stream |
MORRIS BRANCH |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
5 |
Nid Storage |
50 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
30 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Kings Mountain State Park
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Garner Creek
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Garner Creek Backcountry Campsite
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Ebenezer County Park
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Ben Smith Dam