Gadden Pond Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Gaynen Pond Dam Way Pond Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Gadden Pond Dam, located in Calhoun, South Carolina, is a private earth dam that was completed in 1965 for recreational purposes.
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Summary
Standing at a height of 23 feet and with a length of 360 feet, the dam holds a storage capacity of 62 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 6 acres. The dam is situated on TR-SQUIRREL CREEK and is regulated by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC).
Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, Gadden Pond Dam is in fair condition according to its last assessment in March 2017. The dam is subject to regular state inspections, with a frequency of every 5 years, to ensure its structural integrity and safety. While the dam has an uncontrolled spillway type, its risk assessment indicates a moderate level of risk, prompting the need for ongoing risk management measures to be implemented.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Gadden Pond Dam serves as an intriguing case study of a privately owned dam designed primarily for recreational use in South Carolina. With its unique design features and regulated status by the state, the dam presents a blend of environmental and engineering considerations that contribute to its overall function and safety. As efforts continue to manage and mitigate potential risks associated with the dam, it remains a focal point for understanding the intersection of water resources, infrastructure, and climate resilience in the region.
Year Completed |
1965 |
Dam Length |
360 |
Dam Height |
23 |
River Or Stream |
TR-SQUIRREL CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
6 |
Nid Storage |
62 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
23 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Wateree R. Bl Eastover
|
2400cfs |
North Fork Edisto River At Orangeburg
|
950cfs |
Gills Creek At Columbia
|
76cfs |
Congaree River At Columbia
|
4580cfs |
Santee River Near Pineville
|
696cfs |
Smith Branch At North Main St At Columbia
|
9cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Gadden Pond Dam