Holmes Pond Dam, located in Aiken, South Carolina, is a privately owned structure built in 1950 primarily for irrigation purposes along Bulls Branch. Standing at a height of 22 feet and stretching 385 feet in length, the dam has a storage capacity of 63.2 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 7 acres. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam's condition is currently assessed as poor, with its last inspection in August 2017 revealing the need for maintenance and repairs.

The dam, constructed as an earth buttress type, is regulated by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (SC DHEC) and subject to state permitting, inspection, and enforcement protocols. While its primary function is for irrigation, the dam also serves recreational purposes. It is interesting to note that the dam is not under the jurisdiction of any federal agency, with operational oversight falling solely on the private owner. With its historical significance dating back over 70 years, the maintenance and upkeep of Holmes Pond Dam are essential to ensuring its continued functionality and safety for the surrounding community.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the state of infrastructure like Holmes Pond Dam is crucial for monitoring and managing the impact of climate change on water systems. With its poor condition assessment and the need for regular inspections, there is a pressing need for ongoing maintenance and potential rehabilitation efforts to safeguard the dam's structural integrity and the surrounding environment. Keeping a close eye on the regulatory processes and risk assessment measures associated with Holmes Pond Dam will be pivotal in ensuring the sustainable management of its water resources for future generations.