Capers Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Capers Pond Dam, located in Edgefield, South Carolina, is a privately owned structure that serves multiple purposes including recreation and other uses.


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Summary

Built in 1950, this earth dam stands at a height of 29 feet and spans a length of 400 feet, providing a storage capacity of 460 acre-feet. Situated on Fox Creek, this dam is regulated by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety and reliability.

Despite being classified with a "high" hazard potential, Capers Pond Dam has been assessed to be in fair condition as of the last inspection in April 2020. With a normal storage capacity of 239 acre-feet and a surface area of 23 acres, this dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region. As a popular spot for recreational activities, it is essential for the dam to be well-maintained to prevent any potential risks or emergencies, prompting the need for an effective Emergency Action Plan (EAP) to be in place.

With its important role in the local community and the potential risks associated with a high hazard rating, Capers Pond Dam serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between water resource management and public safety. As enthusiasts of water resources and climate, understanding the complexities of structures like Capers Pond Dam can shed light on the intricate relationship between infrastructure, natural resources, and environmental stewardship in the face of a changing climate.

Year Completed

1950

Dam Length

400

Dam Height

29

River Or Stream

FOX CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

23

Nid Storage

460

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

29
       
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.