Frank Wardlaw Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Frank Wardlaw Dam, located in McCormick, South Carolina, is a privately owned structure with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

Built in 1920, this earth dam stands at 16 feet tall and stretches 685 feet in length, creating a storage capacity of 50 acre-feet. With a normal storage capacity of 32 acre-feet, the dam also boasts a low hazard potential and fair condition assessment.

Managed by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control, Frank Wardlaw Dam is state-regulated and inspected regularly to ensure safety and compliance. Situated on the TR-Persimmon Branch river, this dam offers a controlled spillway and is surrounded by a surface area of 8 acres for recreational activities. Despite its age, the dam remains a popular spot for water resource and climate enthusiasts to enjoy the outdoors and appreciate the engineering behind this historic structure.

With a very high risk assessment rating, Frank Wardlaw Dam continues to be monitored closely for any potential risks or hazards. The dam's emergency action plan and risk management measures are essential components in safeguarding the surrounding community and environment. As a significant contributor to the region's water resource management, this dam serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between recreation, safety, and conservation in the face of climate change challenges.

Year Completed

1920

Dam Length

685

Dam Height

16

River Or Stream

TR-PERSIMMON BRANCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

8

Nid Storage

50

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

16
       
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.