Loyds Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Loyds Pond Dam, also known as Loyd's INC Dam, is a privately owned structure located in Pickens, South Carolina.


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Summary

Completed in 1972, this Earth-type dam serves primarily for recreational purposes, offering a surface area of 12 acres and a storage capacity of 280 acre-feet. Standing at a height of 41 feet and stretching 466 feet in length, Loyds Pond Dam poses a high hazard potential, although its condition assessment is currently listed as "Not Rated."

Managed by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC), Loyds Pond Dam is subject to state regulations, inspections, and enforcement measures to ensure its safety and compliance. The dam impounds water from the TR-HAMILTON CREEK, providing a serene setting for recreational activities in the surrounding area. Despite its high hazard potential, Loyds Pond Dam has not been rated for its condition, highlighting the need for ongoing monitoring and assessment to mitigate any potential risks associated with its operation.

With its picturesque location and essential role in providing recreational opportunities, Loyds Pond Dam stands as a notable landmark in the water resource management landscape of South Carolina. As climate change continues to impact water resources and infrastructure, the maintenance and safety of dams like Loyds Pond remain crucial for both environmental protection and public safety. Through effective regulation, inspection, and enforcement, Loyds Pond Dam serves as a reminder of the importance of sustainable water management practices in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1972

Dam Length

466

Dam Height

41

River Or Stream

TR-HAMILTON CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

12

Nid Storage

280

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

41
       
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.