Murray Pond Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Cooper Pond Dam Fishing Creek
Last Updated: December 15, 2025
Murray Pond Dam, also known as Longs Dam 1, is a privately owned structure located in Lancaster, South Carolina.
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Summary
Completed in 1949, this earth dam stands at a height of 24 feet and spans a length of 410 feet, with a primary purpose of providing recreational activities for enthusiasts. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment in 2017 revealed a poor state, prompting the need for regular inspections every five years to ensure public safety and environmental protection.
Situated on TR-Bear Creek and falling under the regulatory oversight of South Carolina's Department of Health and Environmental Control (SC DHEC), Murray Pond Dam has a storage capacity of 157 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 129 acre-feet. The dam's poor condition highlights the importance of maintaining and monitoring such structures, especially in light of climate change impacts that can exacerbate risks associated with aging infrastructure. With its proximity to the Charleston District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, the dam serves as a valuable asset for both recreational enjoyment and water resource management in the region.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts continue to advocate for sustainable practices and infrastructure resilience, Murray Pond Dam serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges faced in ensuring the safety and reliability of our water systems. With a focus on inspection, maintenance, and risk management measures, this dam exemplifies the need for proactive stewardship in safeguarding our natural resources and adapting to changing environmental conditions. By staying informed and engaged, individuals can play a vital role in promoting the long-term health and sustainability of water resources like the Murray Pond Dam.
Year Completed |
1949 |
Dam Length |
410 |
Dam Height |
24 |
River Or Stream |
TR-BEAR CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
14 |
Nid Storage |
157 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
24 |
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.
Murray Pond Dam