Smith-Cantrell Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Smith-Cantrell Pond Dam, located in Spartanburg, South Carolina, is a privately owned earth dam completed in 1957 for the primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

Standing at 27 feet tall and stretching 280 feet in length, this dam has a storage capacity of 300 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 24 acres. It is situated on TR-Lawsons Fork Creek and is regulated by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control.

With a high hazard potential and fair condition assessment as of August 2019, Smith-Cantrell Pond Dam undergoes inspections every two years to ensure its safety and integrity. The dam has not been modified in recent years, and emergency action plans are in place to address any potential risks associated with its operation. While there are no outlet gates or locks associated with the dam, it serves as a vital resource for recreational activities in the area, attracting water resource and climate enthusiasts alike.

As part of the Charleston District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, Smith-Cantrell Pond Dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources and mitigating potential risks in the region. Its presence on TR-Lawsons Fork Creek not only enhances the natural landscape but also provides a valuable recreational space for the community. As water resource and climate enthusiasts continue to monitor and appreciate the importance of dams like Smith-Cantrell Pond, ensuring their safety and functionality remains a top priority for sustainable water management practices.

Year Completed

1957

Dam Length

280

Dam Height

27

River Or Stream

TR-LAWSONS FORK CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

24

Nid Storage

300

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

27
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.