Ross's Pond Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Ardis Pond Dam Barnetts Pond Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Ross's Pond Dam, located in Sumter, South Carolina, was completed in 1965 and serves the primary purposes of fire protection, stock, and small fish pond recreation.
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Summary
This private earth dam stands at a height of 8 feet and has a length of 470 feet, providing a storage capacity of 73 acre-feet. Despite being classified as low hazard potential and in fair condition as of the last assessment in 2017, the dam is regulated by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) and undergoes regular inspections, with the next one scheduled for 2022.
Situated on the TR-LEE SWAMP river/stream, Ross's Pond Dam is overseen by a private entity, with no federal agency involvement in ownership, funding, or design. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway type and is equipped with no outlet gates or associated structures. While the hazard potential is deemed low, the risk assessment for the dam is moderate (3), prompting the need for continued risk management measures to ensure its safety and stability. Despite its relatively small size and storage capacity, the dam plays a crucial role in providing water resources for fire protection and recreational activities in the area.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Ross's Pond Dam presents an intriguing case study of a privately owned earth dam in South Carolina, showcasing the intersection of regulatory compliance, risk assessment, and infrastructure maintenance in the management of water resources. As the dam continues to serve its multiple purposes, ongoing monitoring and maintenance efforts will be essential to uphold its functionality and safety, highlighting the importance of proactive measures in ensuring the resilience of water infrastructure in the face of changing environmental conditions and potential hazards.
Year Completed |
1965 |
Dam Length |
470 |
Dam Height |
8 |
River Or Stream |
TR-LEE SWAMP |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
8 |
Nid Storage |
73 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
8 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Wateree R. Bl Eastover
|
2400cfs |
Wateree River Nr. Camden
|
2170cfs |
Lynches River Near Bishopville
|
425cfs |
Gills Creek At Columbia
|
76cfs |
Black Creek Near Hartsville
|
142cfs |
Smith Branch At North Main St At Columbia
|
9cfs |
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.
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