Fricks Pond Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Fricks Pond Dam, also known as Bates Pond, is a private dam located in Saluda, South Carolina.
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Summary
Built in 1978 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at 27 feet high and spans 575 feet in length, serving primarily for irrigation purposes on CHINQUAPIN CREEK. With a storage capacity of 157 acre-feet and a surface area of 13 acres, Fricks Pond Dam is regulated by SC DHEC and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its fair condition and high hazard potential are managed effectively.
Despite its fair condition assessment, Fricks Pond Dam poses a moderate risk factor (3) due to its uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates. The dam's emergency action plan was last revised in 2015, and it meets regulatory guidelines for risk management. The dam is not owned or funded by federal agencies, but it is overseen by the Natural Resources Conservation Service for design and construction. With its strategic location and crucial role in irrigation, Fricks Pond Dam stands as a vital water resource structure in South Carolina, attracting water resource and climate enthusiasts alike.
Year Completed |
1978 |
Dam Length |
575 |
Dam Height |
27 |
River Or Stream |
CHINQUAPIN CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
13 |
Nid Storage |
157 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
27 |
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.
Fricks Pond Dam