McMaster Pond Dam, located in Fairfield, South Carolina, is a privately owned earth dam completed in 1960 for the primary purpose of recreation. Standing at a height of 15 feet and stretching 450 feet in length, the dam boasts a storage capacity of 61 acre-feet and a surface area of 7 acres. Situated on TR-Big Wateree Creek, the dam is regulated by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity.

Despite its low hazard potential, McMaster Pond Dam has been rated as being in poor condition as of the last assessment in 2017. The dam is equipped with no spillways or outlet gates, and its emergency action plan status and risk management measures remain unclear. With the dam showing signs of deterioration, there is a need for ongoing monitoring and maintenance to prevent any potential safety hazards and ensure the long-term sustainability of this recreational water resource. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, keeping a close eye on the condition of McMaster Pond Dam and advocating for its proper upkeep is essential to preserving this beloved community asset.