Ballington Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 16, 2025

Ballington Pond Dam, located in Lexington, South Carolina, stands as a testament to the importance of water resource management for recreation.


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Summary

Built in 1950, this private earth dam spans 540 feet in length and reaches a height of 21 feet, providing a storage capacity of 117 acre-feet for the surrounding area. The primary purpose of this dam is to support recreational activities, making it a vital resource for the community.

Despite its low hazard potential, Ballington Pond Dam is in poor condition as of its last inspection in April 2017. With a history of inadequate maintenance, the dam's structural integrity may be compromised, posing a potential risk to downstream areas. As a state-regulated structure under the jurisdiction of the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (SC DHEC), ongoing inspections and enforcement measures are essential to ensure the safety and sustainability of this important water resource.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is crucial to recognize the significance of dams like Ballington Pond Dam in providing recreational opportunities while also addressing the need for proper maintenance and risk management. By advocating for improved infrastructure and regulatory oversight, we can help safeguard our water resources for future generations and mitigate the potential impacts of climate change on essential structures like this one.

Year Completed

1950

Dam Length

540

Dam Height

21

River Or Stream

TR-CONGAREE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

15

Nid Storage

117

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

21
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

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.