Mathis Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Mathis Pond Dam, also known as Pugh Pond Dam, is a privately owned earth dam located in Edgefield, South Carolina.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Built in 1975 by the USDA NRCS, this recreational dam stands at a height of 18 feet and has a length of 400 feet. It serves the primary purpose of recreation, providing a serene area for water resource and climate enthusiasts to enjoy the surrounding natural beauty.

Despite its low hazard potential, Mathis Pond Dam is currently in poor condition, as assessed in July 2017. The dam has a very high risk assessment rating of 1, indicating the need for immediate attention and maintenance to ensure its structural integrity. The South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (SC DHEC) regulates the dam and conducts regular inspections to monitor its safety and compliance with state regulations.

Although Mathis Pond Dam may have some maintenance issues, its picturesque setting and recreational offerings make it a popular spot for locals and visitors alike. As a controlled spillway dam on the TR-Turkey Creek, it provides a tranquil setting for outdoor activities and wildlife observation. While its condition assessment may be cause for concern, the dam's historical significance and natural charm continue to draw water resource and climate enthusiasts to its waters.

Year Completed

1975

Dam Length

400

Dam Height

18

River Or Stream

TR-TURKEY CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

11

Nid Storage

94

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

18
       
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.