Ragsdale Pond Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Ragsdale Pond Dam, also known as Jane Hamby Dam, is a privately owned earth dam located in Pickens, South Carolina.
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Summary
Completed in 1960, this dam serves primarily for recreational purposes, with a height of 20 feet and a length of 165 feet. It impounds Eighteenmile Creek, providing a surface area of 5 acres and a storage capacity of 64 acre-feet.
Despite its low hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment is rated as poor, indicating a need for maintenance and potential improvements. The last inspection in June 2017 highlighted this concern, with a moderate risk level assigned to the structure. While the dam is state-regulated and monitored by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control, the lack of recent updates on emergency action plans and risk management measures raises some red flags for water resource and climate enthusiasts.
As an enthusiast interested in water resource management and climate resilience, the case of Ragsdale Pond Dam presents an intriguing study on the intersection of recreational infrastructure and environmental stewardship. The balance between public enjoyment and safety considerations, coupled with the need for regular monitoring and maintenance, underscores the challenges faced in preserving our water resources for future generations. The dam's location within the Savannah District of the US Army Corps of Engineers adds another layer of complexity to its management, making it a compelling subject for further research and analysis in the realm of water resource sustainability.
Year Completed |
1960 |
Dam Length |
165 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
TR-EIGHTEENMILE CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
5 |
Nid Storage |
64 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
20 |
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.
Ragsdale Pond Dam