Loring Millpond Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Loring Millpond Dam, located in Sumter, South Carolina, is a privately owned earth dam that was completed in the year 1800 for recreational purposes.
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Summary
With a height of 10 feet and a length of 600 feet, this dam has a storage capacity of 168 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 40 acres. The dam is situated along the Mush Swamp river or stream and is regulated by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (SC DHEC).
Despite its historical significance, Loring Millpond Dam is currently assessed to be in poor condition with a significant hazard potential. The last inspection date was conducted on May 15, 2020, with an inspection frequency of every 3 years. The dam's Emergency Action Plan (EAP) status and risk management measures are unknown, raising concerns about its ability to withstand potential emergencies or disasters. With the dam's condition in question, there is a pressing need for further assessment, maintenance, and potential improvements to ensure the safety and integrity of this structure for both recreational and environmental purposes.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, the state of Loring Millpond Dam serves as a reminder of the importance of regular inspections, maintenance, and risk management measures for the preservation of water resources and the protection of surrounding ecosystems. As discussions continue on the future of this historic dam, it is crucial to prioritize the safety and sustainability of water infrastructure in the face of changing climate patterns and increasing environmental challenges.
Year Completed |
1800 |
Dam Length |
600 |
Dam Height |
10 |
River Or Stream |
MUSH SWAMP |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
40 |
Nid Storage |
168 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
10 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Wateree R. Bl Eastover
|
2400cfs |
Lynches River Near Bishopville
|
425cfs |
Wateree River Nr. Camden
|
2170cfs |
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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