Helen Barnes Herring Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Located in Hampton, South Carolina, the Helen Barnes Herring Dam is a private-owned structure that serves a primary purpose of recreation.
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Summary
Built in 1957, this earth dam stands at a height of 16 feet and spans 360 feet in length, providing a storage capacity of 71 acre-feet. Situated on the Long Branch river, this dam offers a serene surface area of 12 acres for recreational activities such as fishing, boating, and wildlife observation.
Despite its low hazard potential, the Helen Barnes Herring Dam has been assessed as being in poor condition as of November 2017. With a history of state regulation, inspection, and enforcement, the dam continues to be monitored for safety and compliance with South Carolina DHEC standards. While the dam lacks an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) and updated risk assessment measures, it remains an important asset for water resource and climate enthusiasts seeking outdoor recreation opportunities in the area.
Managed by a private entity, the Helen Barnes Herring Dam stands as a testament to the intersection of human infrastructure and natural ecosystems. As visitors enjoy the recreational benefits provided by the dam, ongoing efforts to assess and maintain its structural integrity underscore the importance of balancing water resource management with environmental stewardship. For those interested in the intersection of water resources, climate, and infrastructure, the Helen Barnes Herring Dam offers a case study in the ongoing challenges and opportunities presented by human interaction with the natural world.
Year Completed |
1957 |
Dam Length |
360 |
Dam Height |
16 |
River Or Stream |
LONG BRANCH |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
12 |
Nid Storage |
71 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
16 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Coosawhatchie River Near Hampton
|
68cfs |
Savannah River Near Clyo
|
6820cfs |
Savannah R At Burtons Ferry Br Nr Millhaven
|
7320cfs |
Salkehatchie River Near Miley
|
242cfs |
Brier Creek At Millhaven
|
458cfs |
Ebenezer Creek At Springfield
|
12cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Helen Barnes Herring Dam
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