Burnsides Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 11, 2025

Burnsides Pond Dam, also known as Colonial Villa Dam, is a private dam located in Richland, South Carolina, along the Reeder Point Branch.


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Summary

Built in 1954, this earth dam stands at a height of 16 feet and stretches for 1175 feet, with a storage capacity of 120 acre-feet. The primary purposes of the dam include fire protection, stock, and serving as a small fish pond, as well as offering recreational opportunities in the area.

Despite its low hazard potential and fair condition assessment, Burnsides Pond Dam is regulated by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) and undergoes regular inspections every five years to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway type and is primarily used for water storage and recreational activities. The risk assessment for the dam has been classified as moderate (3), indicating a level of potential risk that is being managed and monitored by the responsible authorities.

With its historical significance and important role in the local community, Burnsides Pond Dam is a notable structure that provides both practical benefits and recreational opportunities for residents and visitors alike. As a private dam under state jurisdiction, it serves as a vital resource for water management, wildlife habitat, and outdoor enjoyment in the region. Climate and water resource enthusiasts will find Burnsides Pond Dam to be an intriguing example of how human-made structures can coexist with nature while fulfilling essential functions for the surrounding environment.

Year Completed

1954

Dam Length

1175

Dam Height

16

River Or Stream

REEDER POINT BRANCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

16

Nid Storage

120

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

16
       
Seasonal Comparison

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Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No 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

High
Dams 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.