Estes Farms Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Charles Jeffcoat Dam Weldon Pond Dam
Last Updated: December 15, 2025
Estes Farms Dam, located in Fairfield, South Carolina, along the TR-Morris Creek, is a privately owned structure primarily used for recreation.
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Summary
Built in 1947, this earth dam stands at a height of 27 feet and stretches 450 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 154 acre-feet. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam's condition has been assessed as poor, indicating a need for maintenance and repairs.
The dam's controlled spillway type suggests a level of management in water release, though the inspection frequency of every 5 years may be insufficient given the poor condition assessment. With a very high risk ranking of 1, there is a pressing need for risk management measures to be put in place to ensure the safety of the surrounding area in the event of a potential breach. Additionally, the lack of Emergency Action Plan (EAP) preparedness raises concerns about the dam's ability to respond effectively in emergency situations.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is crucial to monitor and advocate for the proper maintenance and management of structures like Estes Farms Dam to safeguard against potential risks and ensure the sustainability of water resources in the region. With the involvement of state regulatory agencies like the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC), there is an opportunity to improve the dam's condition and mitigate potential hazards, ultimately protecting both the environment and local communities.
Year Completed |
1947 |
Dam Length |
450 |
Dam Height |
27 |
River Or Stream |
TR-MORRIS CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
14 |
Nid Storage |
154 |
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 |
Smith Branch At North Main St At Columbia
|
3cfs |
Saluda River Near Columbia
|
907cfs |
Congaree River At Columbia
|
3140cfs |
Rocky Creek At Great Falls
|
11cfs |
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.
Estes Farms Dam