Capers Millpond Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Hartley Pond Dam A W Bailey Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Capers Millpond Dam, located in Aiken, South Carolina, was completed in 1931 and serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock, and small fish pond, as well as recreation.
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Summary
The dam, primarily made of earth with stone core types and soil foundations, stands at a height of 16 feet and has a length of 600 feet, creating a reservoir with a normal storage capacity of 42 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 102 acre-feet. The dam is situated along Goodland Creek and is under the regulatory oversight of the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC).
Despite its historical significance and multifaceted utility, Capers Millpond Dam faces challenges related to its condition assessment, with a rating of poor and a high hazard potential. The last inspection in June 2019 revealed the need for improvements and maintenance to ensure the safety and functionality of the structure. With a frequency of inspections every two years, efforts are being made to address the dam's deficiencies and mitigate risks associated with its operation.
With its picturesque location and important role in water resource management, Capers Millpond Dam serves as a focal point for water and climate enthusiasts interested in the intersection of infrastructure, ecology, and public safety. As discussions continue around the future of the dam and potential risk management measures, stakeholders are working to balance the preservation of its historical value with the imperative to enhance its resilience and ensure the well-being of surrounding communities and ecosystems in the face of changing environmental conditions.
Year Completed |
1931 |
Dam Length |
600 |
Dam Height |
16 |
River Or Stream |
GOODLAND CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
6 |
Nid Storage |
102 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
16 |
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.
Capers Millpond Dam