Upper Sunny Hill Pond Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Upper Sunny Hill Pond Dam in Kershaw, South Carolina, is a privately owned earth dam completed in 1969 for recreational purposes.
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Summary
Sitting on the TR-Wateree River, this dam stands at a height of 19 feet and stretches 290 feet in length. With a storage capacity of 174 acre-feet, it covers a surface area of 16 acres, providing a serene backdrop for outdoor activities.
Despite its recreational appeal, Upper Sunny Hill Pond Dam poses a high hazard potential and has been rated in poor condition during the last inspection in December 2020. The dam is regulated by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC), with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place to ensure public safety. With its location in a picturesque setting along the river, awareness of the dam's condition and maintenance needs are crucial for both water resource and climate enthusiasts who enjoy its surroundings.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts continue to appreciate the beauty of Upper Sunny Hill Pond Dam and its role in providing recreational opportunities, there is a growing need for ongoing risk assessment and management measures to address its high hazard potential and poor condition. With its proximity to the Wateree River, understanding the structural integrity and maintenance requirements of this dam is essential for preserving its recreational value while prioritizing safety for the surrounding community. As discussions on dam safety and maintenance evolve, stakeholders are encouraged to stay informed and engaged in efforts to ensure the long-term sustainability of this vital water resource feature.
Year Completed |
1969 |
Dam Length |
290 |
Dam Height |
19 |
River Or Stream |
TR-WATEREE RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
16 |
Nid Storage |
174 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
19 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Wateree River Nr. Camden
|
2170cfs |
Lynches River Near Bishopville
|
425cfs |
Rocky Creek At Great Falls
|
19cfs |
Black Creek Near Hartsville
|
142cfs |
Gills Creek At Columbia
|
76cfs |
Fishing Creek Below Fort Lawn
|
62cfs |
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.
Upper Sunny Hill Pond Dam