Cain Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 9, 2025

Located in Sumter, South Carolina, Cain Pond Dam is a private-owned structure that serves as a recreational area for water resource and climate enthusiasts.


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Summary

Built in 1930, this earth dam stands at a height of 12 feet and stretches over a length of 740 feet, providing storage for up to 62 acre-feet of water. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam is currently in poor condition, as assessed in April 2017.

Managed by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (SC DHEC), Cain Pond Dam is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by the state, ensuring its safety and compliance with regulations. Although lacking in some structural information, such as the spillway type and discharge capacity, the dam remains a vital recreational asset in the area, offering a surface area of 10 acres for outdoor activities and enjoyment. With its historical significance and natural surroundings, Cain Pond Dam continues to attract visitors seeking a serene and picturesque setting for water-related adventures.

With its tranquil setting along the TR-Brunson Swamp, Cain Pond Dam presents an opportunity for visitors to appreciate the beauty of nature while engaging in recreational pursuits. Despite its aging infrastructure and the need for maintenance, the dam remains a notable landmark in the region, inviting water resource and climate enthusiasts to explore its historical significance and environmental impact. As efforts are made to improve its condition and ensure its longevity, Cain Pond Dam stands as a testament to the intersection of human intervention and natural landscapes, creating a unique and engaging experience for all who visit.

Year Completed

1930

Dam Length

740

Dam Height

12

River Or Stream

TR-BRUNSON SWAMP

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

10

Nid Storage

62

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

12
       
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.