James Mason Pond Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Charles Jeffcoat Dam Estes Farms Dam
Last Updated: December 14, 2025
James Mason Pond Dam, located in Fairfield, South Carolina, is a privately owned Earth dam built in 1935 primarily for recreational purposes.
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Summary
Standing at 27 feet tall and stretching 466 feet in length, it boasts a storage capacity of 273 acre-feet and a surface area of 31 acres. The dam is situated on TR-Gibson Branch and falls under the jurisdiction of the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC), which oversees its regulation, permitting, inspection, and enforcement.
Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, the dam's condition remains unrated as of the last inspection in April 2017. With an inspection frequency of five years, the dam's risk assessment is moderate (3), indicating a degree of vulnerability that necessitates careful monitoring and potential risk management measures. Although no emergency action plan (EAP) is currently in place, the dam's risk profile suggests the importance of preparedness and adherence to safety guidelines to mitigate any potential threats to the surrounding community and environment.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, James Mason Pond Dam serves as a fascinating example of a historic structure that not only provides recreational opportunities but also highlights the importance of responsible dam management in safeguarding public safety and environmental integrity. As discussions around dam safety and risk assessment continue to evolve, this dam stands as a reminder of the critical role that effective regulation, inspection, and maintenance play in ensuring the resilience and sustainability of water infrastructure in the face of changing climate conditions.
Year Completed |
1935 |
Dam Length |
466 |
Dam Height |
27 |
River Or Stream |
TR-GIBSON BRANCH |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
31 |
Nid Storage |
273 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
27 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Broad River At Alston
|
1810cfs |
Saluda River Below Lk Murray Dam Nr Columbia
|
775cfs |
Saluda River Near Columbia
|
907cfs |
Smith Branch At North Main St At Columbia
|
3cfs |
Congaree River At Columbia
|
3140cfs |
Gills Creek At Columbia
|
37cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
James Mason Pond Dam