Martha Ladd Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 15, 2025
Martha Ladd Dam is a privately owned structure located in Fairfield, South Carolina, along the TR-Mill Creek.
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Summary
Completed in 1955, this Earth dam stands at a height of 20 feet and spans 380 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 91 acre-feet. The primary purpose of Martha Ladd Dam is for recreation, providing opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy the surrounding area.
Despite its low hazard potential, Martha Ladd Dam is currently assessed as being in poor condition, with the last inspection conducted in April 2017. The dam is regulated by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC), with the state agency overseeing permitting, inspection, and enforcement activities. While the dam has not undergone any modifications in recent years, there is a need for ongoing monitoring and potential maintenance to ensure its continued safety and functionality.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Martha Ladd Dam serves as a notable landmark within the Savannah District of the US Army Corps of Engineers. With its recreational focus and significant storage capacity, this dam plays a role in the local ecosystem and provides opportunities for outdoor enjoyment. As discussions around water management and infrastructure continue, the condition and maintenance of Martha Ladd Dam will be important factors to consider in ensuring the safety and sustainability of this water resource.
Year Completed |
1955 |
Dam Length |
380 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
TR-MILL CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
11 |
Nid Storage |
91 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
20 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Martha Ladd Dam