Cathcart Pond Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Martha Ladd Dam Estes Farms Dam
Last Updated: December 15, 2025
Cathcart Pond Dam, located in Fairfield, South Carolina, is a privately owned earth dam completed in 1950 primarily for recreation purposes.
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Summary
Standing at a height of 24 feet and stretching 325 feet in length, this dam holds a storage capacity of 101 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 65 acre-feet. The dam overlooks the picturesque TR-MILL CREEK, offering a serene environment for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy various water-based activities.
Despite its low hazard potential, Cathcart Pond Dam received an unsatisfactory condition assessment in 2017, indicating the need for maintenance and repairs to ensure its structural integrity. The dam is under the regulatory oversight of the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control, with state-permitting, inspection, and enforcement mechanisms in place. While the risk assessment classifies the dam as having a very high risk level, proper risk management measures are yet to be specified, highlighting the importance of addressing potential safety concerns and ensuring the long-term sustainability of this vital water resource.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts visiting Cathcart Pond Dam can appreciate its historical significance and recreational value, while also recognizing the importance of ongoing maintenance and risk management efforts to safeguard the surrounding community and environment. With its controlled spillway and tranquil surroundings, this dam serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between human enjoyment of water resources and the need for responsible stewardship to protect against potential hazards and ensure a sustainable future for generations to come.
Year Completed |
1950 |
Dam Length |
325 |
Dam Height |
24 |
River Or Stream |
TR-MILL CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
9 |
Nid Storage |
101 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
24 |
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 |
Rocky Creek At Great Falls
|
11cfs |
Saluda River Near Columbia
|
907cfs |
Congaree River At Columbia
|
3140cfs |
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.
Cathcart Pond Dam