Hickory Hollow Farm Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Hickory Hollow Farm Dam, also known as the Paula Baker Dam, is a privately owned structure located in Spartanburg, South Carolina.


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Summary

Built in 1971, this earth dam stands at a height of 66 feet and stretches 360 feet in length, providing a storage capacity of 705 acre-feet. Situated on TR-Jordan Creek, it serves primarily for recreational purposes, offering a surface area of 25 acres for activities like fishing and boating.

Despite its low hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment in 2017 was deemed poor, indicating a need for maintenance and repairs to ensure its continued safety and functionality. The South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control regulates this dam, with state-permitted inspections and enforcement in place. While it may pose a moderate risk due to its current condition, proper risk management measures can help mitigate any potential issues and ensure the safety of the surrounding area.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Hickory Hollow Farm Dam offers a glimpse into the intersection of human-made structures and natural landscapes. With its picturesque setting and recreational opportunities, this dam serves as a reminder of the importance of proper maintenance and regulation to ensure the safety of both the dam and the community it serves. By staying informed and engaged in the maintenance and management of dams like this one, enthusiasts can play a role in protecting water resources and adapting to the challenges posed by a changing climate.

Year Completed

1971

Dam Length

360

Dam Height

66

River Or Stream

TR-JORDAN CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

25

Nid Storage

705

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

66
       
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.