O'Neal Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Allendale, South Carolina, O'Neal Pond Dam stands as a private entity with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

Completed in 1955, this Earth-type dam rises to a height of 22 feet and stretches 900 feet in length, providing a storage capacity of 496 acre-feet. The dam overlooks the scenic DUCK BRANCH stream, offering visitors a tranquil oasis for outdoor activities and leisure.

Maintained by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control, O'Neal Pond Dam holds a significant hazard potential with a fair condition assessment as of February 2020. Despite being regulated by the state and subject to regular inspections, the dam's emergency action plan status remains unclear, posing questions about its readiness for potential risks and disasters. With a designated inspection frequency of 3 years, ongoing maintenance and risk management measures are crucial to ensure the safety and sustainability of this recreational water resource.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts explore the environmental significance of O'Neal Pond Dam, its role in providing recreational opportunities while managing water storage and discharge becomes apparent. With the potential for improved risk assessment and emergency preparedness, stakeholders can work towards enhancing the resilience of this vital structure in Allendale, South Carolina. By staying informed and engaged in its upkeep, individuals can contribute to the long-term preservation of this picturesque dam and its surrounding natural habitat.

Year Completed

1955

Dam Length

900

Dam Height

22

River Or Stream

DUCK BRANCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

62

Nid Storage

496

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

22
       
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.