Ponderosa Pond Dam, also known as Ponderosa Country Club Dam, is a privately owned structure located in Saluda, South Carolina. Built in 1958, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 31 feet and spans 550 feet in length, creating a reservoir with a storage capacity of 182 acre-feet. The primary purpose of this dam is for recreation, offering a serene environment for water enthusiasts to enjoy activities such as fishing and boating.

Despite its recreational appeal, Ponderosa Pond Dam has a high hazard potential and a poor condition assessment as of the last inspection in October 2017. This raises concerns about the safety and stability of the structure, prompting the need for regular inspections and potential risk management measures. The State of South Carolina, through DHEC, regulates and inspects the dam to ensure compliance with safety standards and to mitigate any potential risks to the surrounding community.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the details and condition of dams like Ponderosa Pond Dam is crucial for assessing their impact on the environment and local communities. By staying informed about the maintenance and safety of such structures, we can contribute to the preservation of water resources and the mitigation of potential hazards in our changing climate.