West Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 7, 2025

West Lake Dam, also known as Hales Pond Dam, is a private dam located in Sumter, South Carolina.


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Summary

Built in 1970, this earth dam stands at a height of 11 feet and stretches 440 feet in length, providing a storage capacity of 84 acre-feet for recreational purposes. The dam is situated on the TR-Hatchet Camp Branch river and is regulated by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC).

Despite its low hazard potential and fair condition assessment, West Lake Dam undergoes regular inspections every five years to ensure its structural integrity and safety. With a surface area of 15 acres and a normal storage capacity of 54 acre-feet, the dam serves as a popular spot for recreational activities in the area. Although there are no associated structures or locks, the dam continues to provide a scenic environment for water resource and climate enthusiasts to enjoy.

West Lake Dam's location and design make it a key feature in the region, attracting visitors seeking outdoor recreation and relaxation. With its modest size and low risk profile, the dam stands as a testament to responsible dam management and safety practices in South Carolina. As climate change impacts water resources, the maintenance and upkeep of dams like West Lake Dam play a crucial role in ensuring sustainable water management for future generations.

Year Completed

1970

Dam Length

440

Dam Height

11

River Or Stream

TR-HATCHET CAMP BRANCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

15

Nid Storage

84

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

11
       
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.