Smith-Berry Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Smith-Berry Pond Dam, located in Edgefield, South Carolina, is a privately owned structure primarily used for irrigation purposes.


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Summary

Completed in 1950, this earth dam stands at a height of 15 feet and has a storage capacity of 128 acre-feet. With a surface area of 16 acres, the dam plays a vital role in managing water resources for agricultural activities in the region.

Managed and regulated by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC), Smith-Berry Pond Dam has been deemed to have a significant hazard potential, although its condition assessment was rated as fair during the last inspection in January 2019. The dam has a spillway width of 0 feet and has not been modified in recent years. Despite its fair condition, the dam poses a considerable risk, highlighting the importance of regular inspections and maintenance to ensure its safety and functionality.

The surrounding area, including Shaw Creek, benefits from the water resources provided by Smith-Berry Pond Dam for both irrigation and recreational activities. As climate change continues to impact water availability and quality, the management and maintenance of such structures are crucial to ensure sustainable water use and resilience against extreme weather events. Enthusiasts and stakeholders interested in water resource management and climate adaptation will find Smith-Berry Pond Dam to be a captivating case study in the intersection of infrastructure, water resources, and climate change.

Year Completed

1950

Dam Length

510

Dam Height

15

River Or Stream

SHAW CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

16

Nid Storage

128

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

15
       
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.