S K Brown Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

S K Brown Dam, located in McCormick, South Carolina, is a private dam primarily used for recreation purposes.


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Summary

Built in 1965, this earth dam stands at a height of 12 feet and stretches 655 feet in length, creating a storage capacity of 85 acre-feet with a normal storage level of 40 acre-feet. Situated on the TR-SAVANNAH RIVER, this dam has a low hazard potential but is currently in poor condition as of the last inspection in October 2017.

Despite its modest size and condition assessment, S K Brown Dam still serves as a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts seeking recreational activities in the area. With a surface area of 17 acres and a maximum storage capacity of 85 acre-feet, the dam provides opportunities for fishing, boating, and other water-based activities. While the dam is privately owned, it falls under the regulatory jurisdiction of the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC), ensuring compliance with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement protocols.

As climate and water resource enthusiasts explore the diverse landscape of South Carolina, S K Brown Dam stands as a modest yet vital part of the local ecosystem. With its earth construction and buttress core type, the dam reflects the balance between human recreation and environmental stewardship along the TR-SAVANNAH RIVER. While efforts may be needed to improve the dam's condition and safety measures, its presence continues to enrich the outdoor experiences of visitors to McCormick County.

Year Completed

1965

Dam Length

655

Dam Height

12

River Or Stream

TR-SAVANNAH RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

17

Nid Storage

85

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

12
       
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.