Whaley Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Whaley Pond Dam, located in Berkeley, South Carolina, stands as a testament to the engineering marvels of its time, having been completed in 1969.


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Summary

This private-owned earth dam, standing at 11 feet in height and stretching over 1300 feet in length, serves as a vital structure for managing water resources in the area. With a primary purpose of recreation, the dam provides a storage capacity of 194 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 86 acre-feet and a surface area of 54 acres.

Despite its historical significance and functional utility, Whaley Pond Dam faces challenges in terms of its condition assessment, marked as poor during the last inspection in November 2017. The dam's hazard potential is classified as low, but efforts must be made to improve its overall condition and safety measures to ensure the long-term stability of the structure. With state regulation and inspection in place, including enforcement and permitting, there is a framework for addressing these concerns and safeguarding the surrounding communities and environment.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts observe the Whaley Pond Dam, they are reminded of the delicate balance between harnessing natural resources for human activities like recreation, and the responsibility to maintain and safeguard these structures for the well-being of all. With a commitment to regular inspections, risk assessments, and necessary maintenance measures, this dam can continue to serve its purpose effectively while preserving the integrity of the surrounding ecosystem and waterways.

Year Completed

1969

Dam Length

1300

Dam Height

11

River Or Stream

CANTERHILL SWAMP

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

54

Nid Storage

194

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

11
       
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.