M Tucker Laffitte Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

M Tucker Laffitte Dam, located in Hampton, South Carolina, was completed in 1955 and serves as a recreational resource for the community.


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Summary

This private earth dam stands at a height of 10 feet and has a length of 600 feet, with a storage capacity of 80 acre-feet. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam is in poor condition as of the last assessment in 2017.

Owned privately, the dam is regulated by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) and undergoes regular inspections and enforcement measures. Situated on Rum Branch, the dam provides a surface area of 16 acres for recreational activities. It is important for water resource and climate enthusiasts to note the dam's condition and the potential risks associated with its current state.

With a history dating back over six decades, M Tucker Laffitte Dam remains a significant feature in the region, overseen by the Charleston District of the US Army Corps of Engineers. Despite its age, the dam continues to offer recreational opportunities to locals and visitors alike. As climate change impacts water resources, it is crucial for stakeholders to monitor and address the maintenance and safety of such structures to ensure their longevity and the protection of surrounding communities.

Year Completed

1955

Dam Length

600

Dam Height

10

River Or Stream

RUM BRANCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

16

Nid Storage

80

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

10
       
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.