J M Smith Pond Dam, located in Edgefield, South Carolina, was completed in 1955 and serves primarily for recreational purposes. This private Earth dam, with a height of 23 feet and a length of 430 feet, impounds TR-SHAW CREEK to create a surface area of 9 acres and a storage capacity of 98 acre-feet. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam is classified as having a poor condition assessment, with the last inspection conducted in July 2017.

Managed by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (SC DHEC), the dam is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by the state agency. The risk assessment for J M Smith Pond Dam indicates a very high risk level, with a rating of 1, prompting the need for comprehensive risk management measures. The dam's emergency action plan (EAP) status, inundation maps, and contact information for emergency situations are not currently updated or available, highlighting potential areas for improvement to enhance safety and preparedness in case of emergencies. Overall, J M Smith Pond Dam presents a fascinating case study for water resource and climate enthusiasts, showcasing the intersection of recreational infrastructure, regulatory oversight, and risk management in the context of dam safety and resilience.