Bennetts Pond Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Bennetts Pond Dam, located in Colleton, South Carolina, stands as a vital structure on the TR-ASHEPOO RIVER, offering not only recreational opportunities but also serving as a key component in the management of water resources in the area.
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Summary
Built in 1971, this earth dam with a height of 11 feet and a length of 380 feet provides a storage capacity of 143 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 117 acre-feet. Despite its importance, the dam's condition assessment is marked as poor, indicating a need for maintenance and potential updates to ensure its continued functionality.
Managed by a private owner, Bennetts Pond Dam falls under state regulatory oversight by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC), with the dam being subject to permitting, inspection, and enforcement procedures. Although classified with a low hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment raises concerns about its structural integrity and long-term sustainability. With the last inspection conducted in November 2017, it is crucial for stakeholders to address the identified issues and implement necessary risk management measures to safeguard the surrounding community and environment.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts continue to advocate for sustainable practices, Bennetts Pond Dam emerges as a focal point for discussions on dam safety, maintenance, and the importance of efficient water management. With its strategic location and role in recreation and water storage, the dam presents both opportunities and challenges in balancing human needs with environmental preservation. By prioritizing regular inspections, maintenance efforts, and risk assessment protocols, stakeholders can ensure the longevity and safety of Bennetts Pond Dam for future generations to enjoy and benefit from.
Year Completed |
1971 |
Dam Length |
380 |
Dam Height |
11 |
River Or Stream |
TR-ASHEPOO RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
13 |
Nid Storage |
143 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
11 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Bennetts Pond Dam