Vernon Coward Pond Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 15, 2025
Vernon Coward Pond Dam in Fairfield, South Carolina, stands as a private-owned structure completed in 1961 primarily for recreation purposes.
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Summary
The dam, classified as an Earth type with a height of 20 feet and a length of 260 feet, holds a storage capacity of 70 acre-feet and covers an area of 8 acres. Situated on TR-BIG CEDAR CREEK, the dam is regulated by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (SC DHEC) and undergoes regular inspections, although its current condition is assessed as poor.
Despite its low hazard potential, the dam's risk assessment is considered moderate (3), prompting the need for vigilant monitoring and potential risk management measures. With a history of poor structural assessment and a lack of emergency preparedness plans, Vernon Coward Pond Dam serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining and upgrading aging infrastructure to mitigate potential risks and ensure the safety of surrounding communities and the environment. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is crucial to advocate for the preservation and modernization of such vital structures to adapt to changing climate conditions and safeguard against potential hazards.
Year Completed |
1961 |
Dam Length |
260 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
TR-BIG CEDAR CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
8 |
Nid Storage |
70 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
20 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Broad River At Alston
|
1810cfs |
Smith Branch At North Main St At Columbia
|
3cfs |
Saluda River Below Lk Murray Dam Nr Columbia
|
775cfs |
Saluda River Near Columbia
|
907cfs |
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.
Vernon Coward Pond Dam