B F Finley Dam 1 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

B F Finley Dam 1, also known as Findleys Lower Pond Dam, is a privately owned structure located in Pickens, South Carolina.


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Summary

Built in 1961 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 30 feet and has a length of 370 feet, creating a reservoir with a storage capacity of 199 acre-feet. The primary purpose of the dam is for recreation, offering visitors a serene setting for various outdoor activities.

Despite its recreational appeal, the dam is categorized as having a high hazard potential and a poor condition assessment, with the last inspection conducted in February 2020. The dam's spillway is uncontrolled, and it lacks outlet gates, posing a potential risk to downstream areas in the event of a breach. While the risk assessment is moderate, there is room for improvement in the dam's maintenance and emergency preparedness measures to ensure the safety of surrounding communities and the environment.

Located on the TR-Burdine Creek within the Charleston District, B F Finley Dam 1 serves as a reminder of the importance of proper dam management and maintenance in safeguarding water resources and mitigating climate-related risks. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is crucial to advocate for regular inspections, maintenance, and emergency response plans to minimize potential hazards and protect the integrity of vital infrastructure like B F Finley Dam 1.

Year Completed

1961

Dam Length

370

Dam Height

30

River Or Stream

TR-BURDINE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

14

Nid Storage

199

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

30
       
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.