Rich Pond Dam, also known as W L Rich Dam, is a private-owned earth dam located in Pickens, South Carolina.
Wind
Humidity
Constructed in 1970 by the USDA NRCS, this dam stands at a height of 32 feet and stretches 530 feet in length along the TR-SHOAL CREEK. With a primary purpose of recreation, the dam offers a surface area of 4 acres and a storage capacity of 53 acre-feet, providing ample opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy the surrounding natural beauty.
Managed by SC DHEC, Rich Pond Dam is regulated and inspected by state authorities to ensure its safety and compliance with regulatory standards. Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, its condition assessment in 2017 rated it as fair, prompting a moderate risk assessment. While the dam currently operates with uncontrolled spillways and outlet gates, its risk management measures and emergency action plans are under review to meet guidelines and enhance safety protocols for the surrounding community.
Located within the jurisdiction of the Charleston District, Rich Pond Dam offers a tranquil recreational spot for visitors to enjoy the outdoors while also highlighting the importance of proper dam maintenance and risk management in ensuring the safety of water resources and climate resilience in the region.
Year Completed |
1970 |
Dam Length |
530 |
Dam Height |
32 |
River Or Stream |
TR-SHOAL CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
4 |
Nid Storage |
53 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
32 |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Table Rock State Park
|
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Pleasant Ridge County Park
|
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Paris Mountain State Park
|