Hill Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Hill Pond Dam, also known as McLaurin Pond Dam, is a private dam located in Sumter, South Carolina, completed in 1955 for recreational purposes.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

This earth dam stands at a height of 10 feet and has a length of 355 feet, creating a storage capacity of 119 acre-feet. The dam is situated on the TR-LEE SWAMP river or stream and is regulated by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (SC DHEC).

Despite its low hazard potential, Hill Pond Dam's condition assessment was rated as poor during the last inspection in April 2017. The dam's emergency action plan was not prepared as of the latest update in April 2017, raising concerns about its readiness in the event of a potential breach. With a history of modifications unlisted and unknown, the dam poses a potential risk to the surrounding area if not properly maintained and monitored.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in Hill Pond Dam can explore its unique design as an earth dam with buttress core types, and its impact on the local ecosystem and water storage capabilities. The dam's location in the Charleston District, with a primary purpose of recreation, underscores the importance of regular inspections and proper maintenance to ensure the safety of nearby residents and wildlife. Continued oversight by the South Carolina regulatory agency will be crucial in managing any potential risks associated with this aging structure.

Year Completed

1955

Dam Length

355

Dam Height

10

River Or Stream

TR-LEE SWAMP

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

18

Nid Storage

119

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

10
       
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.