Located in Kershaw, South Carolina, Cook Pond Dam, also known as Kirby Pond Dam, is a privately owned structure that serves primarily for recreation purposes. Built in 1963, this earth dam stands at a height of 12 feet and spans a length of 400 feet, with a storage capacity of 53 acre-feet. The dam is situated along the TR-KELLY CREEK river or stream, under the regulatory oversight of the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC).

Despite its fair condition assessment as of February 2020, Cook Pond Dam poses a significant hazard potential due to its design and location. The dam has a state-regulated status, with regular inspections carried out every three years to ensure its safety and integrity. In case of emergencies, the dam lacks an updated Emergency Action Plan (EAP) and inundation maps, presenting a potential risk to nearby communities in the event of a breach or failure.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the management and maintenance of dams will find Cook Pond Dam to be a noteworthy structure in South Carolina. With its recreational purpose and historical significance, this privately owned dam serves as a reminder of the importance of regular inspections and risk assessments to ensure the safety of surrounding areas and communities in the face of potential hazards.