Caughmans Duck Pond Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 15, 2025
Caughmans Duck Pond Dam, also known as Denley Caughman Pond Dam, is a privately owned structure located in Fairfield, South Carolina.
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Summary
Built in 1963 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 12 feet and spans 445 feet in length. Its primary purpose is for recreation, providing a serene setting for water resource and climate enthusiasts to enjoy activities on the 9-acre surface area of the pond.
Managed by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (SC DHEC), Caughmans Duck Pond Dam is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by the state agency to ensure its safety and compliance with standards. Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment in 2017 reported it as poor. With a moderate risk assessment rating of 3, there is a need for ongoing risk management measures to address any potential safety concerns and maintain the dam's integrity for the enjoyment of recreational activities in the area.
Located on TR-Big Wateree Creek and under the jurisdiction of the Charleston District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, Caughmans Duck Pond Dam offers a picturesque retreat for visitors seeking outdoor recreation in a natural setting. As a significant feature in the local landscape, it serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining and managing water resources responsibly in the face of changing climate conditions.
Year Completed |
1963 |
Dam Length |
445 |
Dam Height |
12 |
River Or Stream |
TR-BIG WATEREE CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
9 |
Nid Storage |
95 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
12 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Rocky Creek At Great Falls
|
11cfs |
Fishing Creek Below Fort Lawn
|
32cfs |
Broad River At Alston
|
1810cfs |
Broad River Near Carlisle
|
1320cfs |
Catawba River Below Catawba
|
1610cfs |
Wateree River Nr. Camden
|
1570cfs |
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.
Caughmans Duck Pond Dam