A P Bowden Pond Dam 1 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 14, 2025

A P Bowden Pond Dam 1, also known as Jackson Dam 1, is a private dam located in Kershaw, South Carolina, along the TR-Sawneys Creek.


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Summary

Completed in 1975, this earth dam stands at a height of 50 feet and has a length of 344 feet, providing a storage capacity of 111 acre-feet for recreational purposes. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment in 2017 revealed poor structural integrity, raising concerns about its long-term safety and maintenance.

Managed by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC), A P Bowden Pond Dam 1 is subject to state regulations and inspections to ensure compliance with safety standards. The dam has a maximum storage capacity of 111 acre-feet and a surface area of 5 acres, making it a popular spot for recreational activities in the area. However, with a poor condition assessment in 2017 and no recent updates on emergency action plans or risk management measures, there is a pressing need for improved maintenance and monitoring to mitigate potential hazards and ensure public safety.

As enthusiasts of water resources and climate, it is crucial to recognize the importance of proper maintenance and oversight for dams like A P Bowden Pond Dam 1. With its deteriorating condition and outdated emergency preparedness measures, there is a call for action to address these concerns and safeguard the surrounding community and environment. By staying informed and advocating for responsible dam management practices, we can help ensure the continued safety and sustainability of vital water resources in our region.

Year Completed

1975

Dam Length

344

Dam Height

50

River Or Stream

TR-SAWNEYS CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

5

Nid Storage

111

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

50
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.