Cranshaw Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 15, 2025

Cranshaw Pond Dam, also known as Branham Cranshaw Dam, is a private-owned structure located in Kershaw, South Carolina.


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Summary

Completed in 1953, this earth dam stands at a height of 20 feet and spans a length of 445 feet. With a primary purpose of recreation, the dam overlooks the Briar Branch river and offers a serene oasis for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy.

Despite its low hazard potential, the dam is currently assessed to be in poor condition as of the last inspection in March 2017. The South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) regulates, inspects, and enforces compliance with state permitting requirements for the dam. The maximum storage capacity of Cranshaw Pond Dam is 55 acre-feet, with a normal storage capacity of 41 acre-feet, making it a crucial water resource for the surrounding area.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will find Cranshaw Pond Dam to be an intriguing structure with historical significance. Its recreational purpose and proximity to nature make it a valuable asset in the community, despite the need for improved maintenance and assessment of its condition. As efforts continue to ensure the safety and sustainability of this dam, it serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining and preserving water resources in harmony with the environment.

Year Completed

1953

Dam Length

445

Dam Height

20

River Or Stream

BRIAR BRANCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

7

Nid Storage

55

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

20
       
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.