Watson Pond Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: O T Price Dam R M Watsons Pond Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Watson Pond Dam, located in Saluda, South Carolina, was completed in 1955 and serves primarily for recreational purposes.
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Summary
This privately owned Earth dam stands at a height of 22 feet and spans 325 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 156 acre-feet. The dam overlooks the TR-CLOUDS CREEK and is regulated by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC).
Despite its low hazard potential, Watson Pond Dam is currently assessed as being in poor condition as of the last inspection in October 2017. The dam has not undergone any modifications in recent years, and its emergency action plan status remains unknown. With a regular inspection frequency of 5 years, it is crucial for the dam's owners to prioritize maintenance and necessary repairs to ensure the safety of the surrounding community and the integrity of the structure.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Watson Pond Dam presents an intriguing case study in dam management and maintenance. As a key recreational feature in the area, the dam's condition assessment and risk management measures are essential aspects to monitor for those interested in sustainable water resource practices and the impact of aging infrastructure on local ecosystems.
Year Completed |
1955 |
Dam Length |
325 |
Dam Height |
22 |
River Or Stream |
TR-CLOUDS CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
10 |
Nid Storage |
156 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
22 |
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.
Watson Pond Dam