Harvin's Pond Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Harvin's Pond Dam, located in Sumter, South Carolina, was completed in 1955 and stands at a height of 13 feet with a length of 280 feet.
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Summary
The dam serves primarily for recreational purposes, providing a storage capacity of 900 acre-feet and a surface area of 98 acres. The dam is constructed primarily of earth with a stone core and soil foundation, and it is regulated and inspected by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control.
Despite its age, Harvin's Pond Dam is categorized as having a significant hazard potential and a poor condition assessment as of its last inspection in April 2020. The dam is in need of maintenance and improvements to ensure its continued safety and effectiveness in managing water resources for the surrounding area. The emergency action plan for the dam was last revised in October 2020, indicating a level of preparedness for potential risks associated with the structure.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Harvin's Pond Dam presents an opportunity to explore the intersection of infrastructure, natural resources, and public safety. Understanding the history, design, and current condition of the dam can provide valuable insights into the challenges and considerations involved in managing water resources and mitigating risks associated with aging infrastructure. As efforts are made to address the dam's condition and hazard potential, stakeholders can engage in discussions and actions to ensure the long-term sustainability and resilience of water management systems in the region.
Year Completed |
1955 |
Dam Length |
280 |
Dam Height |
13 |
River Or Stream |
TR-SWIFT CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
98 |
Nid Storage |
900 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
13 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Wateree River Nr. Camden
|
2170cfs |
Wateree R. Bl Eastover
|
2400cfs |
Lynches River Near Bishopville
|
425cfs |
Gills Creek At Columbia
|
76cfs |
Smith Branch At North Main St At Columbia
|
9cfs |
Congaree River At Columbia
|
4580cfs |
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.
Harvin's Pond Dam