R M Watson Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
The R M Watson Dam, located in Saluda, South Carolina, is a privately owned structure designed for irrigation purposes along the TR-Flat Rock Creek.
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Summary
Completed in 1940, this earth dam stands at a height of 20 feet and has a maximum storage capacity of 127 acre-feet. With a surface area of 15 acres, the dam also serves recreational purposes in addition to its primary function in irrigation.
Despite its low hazard potential, the R M Watson Dam is categorized as having a poor condition assessment as of October 2017. With a risk assessment rating of "Very High (1)," there is a need for increased monitoring and maintenance to ensure the safety and longevity of the structure. The dam is regulated by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC), and it undergoes regular inspections and enforcement to meet state permitting and safety standards.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, the R M Watson Dam serves as a focal point for understanding the importance of infrastructure in managing water resources for both agricultural and recreational purposes. As a key element in the region's water management system, the dam's condition and maintenance are crucial factors in ensuring the sustainability and resilience of the local ecosystem in the face of changing climate conditions.
Year Completed |
1940 |
Dam Length |
850 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
TR-FLAT ROCK CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
15 |
Nid Storage |
127 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
20 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Mctier Creek (Rd 209) Near Monetta
|
20cfs |
Bush River Nr Prosperity
|
58cfs |
Saluda River At Chappells
|
1220cfs |
Little River Nr Silverstreet
|
94cfs |
Lake Greenwood Tailrace Nr Chappells
|
1090cfs |
Augusta Canal Nr Augusta (Upper)
|
2080cfs |
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.
R M Watson Dam