Hawkins Pond Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 15, 2025
Hawkins Pond Dam, located in Fairfield, South Carolina, is a privately owned structure that serves primarily for recreational purposes.
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Summary
Completed in 1974, this Earth dam stands at a height of 23 feet and spans a length of 330 feet, creating a reservoir with a storage capacity of 135 acre-feet. The dam is situated on Freshley Branch and is regulated by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC).
Despite its low hazard potential, Hawkins Pond Dam has not been rated for its condition as of the last inspection in April 2017. The dam has not undergone significant modifications since its construction and does not have an Emergency Action Plan in place. The surrounding area covers 14 acres and offers recreational opportunities for visitors, but there are no associated structures or locks present.
Climate and water resource enthusiasts may find Hawkins Pond Dam an interesting case study for its role in providing recreational opportunities while also being subject to state regulations and inspections. The dam's design and construction details, along with its location in the Savannah District, present a unique perspective on how private dams contribute to local water management efforts in the region.
Year Completed |
1974 |
Dam Length |
330 |
Dam Height |
23 |
River Or Stream |
FRESHLEY BRANCH |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
14 |
Nid Storage |
135 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
23 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Broad River At Alston
|
1790cfs |
Saluda River Below Lk Murray Dam Nr Columbia
|
790cfs |
Saluda River Near Columbia
|
907cfs |
Smith Branch At North Main St At Columbia
|
4cfs |
Congaree River At Columbia
|
3010cfs |
Gills Creek At Columbia
|
38cfs |
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.
Hawkins Pond Dam