Rumphs Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Rumphs Pond Dam, located in Dorchester, South Carolina, was completed in 1963 and serves primarily for recreational purposes.


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Summary

The dam is privately owned and stands at a height of 17 feet, with a length of 610 feet. It has a storage capacity of 70 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 48 acre-feet.

Despite its low hazard potential, the dam is assessed to be in poor condition as of its last inspection in December 2017. The dam's risk assessment is moderate, with a risk level of 3 out of 5. It is regulated by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control and undergoes regular inspections, enforcement, and permitting processes.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Rumphs Pond Dam presents an intriguing case study in the management and maintenance of aging earth dams for recreational purposes. Its location in the Indian Field Swamp watershed adds to its ecological significance, making it a focal point for monitoring and risk assessment in the face of changing climate conditions. As efforts continue to ensure the safety and functionality of the dam, stakeholders can track its progress in meeting guidelines and implementing risk management measures to mitigate potential hazards.

Year Completed

1963

Dam Length

610

Dam Height

17

River Or Stream

TR-INDIAN FIELD SWAMP

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

11

Nid Storage

70

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

17
       
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.