Martin Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Martin Dam, located in South Carolina, is a privately owned earth dam built in 1950 primarily for recreation purposes.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Standing at a height of 10 feet and with a length of 430 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 78 acre-feet, making it a key feature on the TR-Big Cypress Swamp river system. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam's condition was assessed as poor during its last inspection in December 2017.

Managed by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control, Martin Dam is subject to state regulation, permitting, inspection, and enforcement. While the dam has not undergone significant modifications over the years, its emergency action plan and risk assessment measures are currently unlisted. The dam's location in Horry County, South Carolina, presents a unique opportunity for water resource and climate enthusiasts to explore its impact on the surrounding ecosystem.

With its historical significance and recreational importance, Martin Dam serves as a vital asset in the region's water resource management. As enthusiasts continue to monitor and engage with the dam's condition and operations, there is a growing opportunity to understand the intersection of human infrastructure, environmental stewardship, and climate resilience in the area.

Year Completed

1950

Dam Length

430

Dam Height

10

River Or Stream

TR-BIG CYPRESS SWAMP

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

17

Nid Storage

78

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.