Mattie J'S Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Mattie J's Pond Dam, located in Lee, South Carolina, stands as a testament to recreational water resource management since its completion in 1931.


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Summary

This private earth dam, with a height of 17 feet and a length of 350 feet, serves primarily for recreation purposes, offering a serene setting for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy the 164-acre NID storage reservoir. Despite its historical significance, the dam's infrastructure condition has been assessed as poor, highlighting the need for ongoing maintenance and potential improvements to ensure its long-term safety and functionality.

This dam on Casual Branch, a tributary of the Congaree River, is not state-regulated or permitted, posing unique challenges for its inspection and enforcement. The dam's undetermined hazard potential and outdated emergency action plan underscore the importance of proactive risk assessment and management to mitigate any potential threats to downstream communities. With a focus on enhancing safety protocols and conducting regular inspections, stakeholders can work towards preserving Mattie J's Pond Dam as a valuable recreational asset while prioritizing public safety and environmental conservation in the face of evolving climate conditions.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is crucial to recognize the vital role that dams like Mattie J's Pond Dam play in providing recreational opportunities and water storage capabilities. By advocating for sustainable infrastructure practices and investing in comprehensive risk management strategies, we can ensure the continued resilience of these structures in the face of changing environmental conditions and safeguard the well-being of local communities that rely on them for recreation and water resource management.

Year Completed

1931

Dam Length

350

Dam Height

17

River Or Stream

CASUAL BRANCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

13

Nid Storage

164

Hazard Potential

Undetermined

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

17
       
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.