Layseth Mill Pond Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Morefield Pond Dam Shannon Pond Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Layseth Mill Pond Dam, located in Orangeburg, South Carolina, is a private earth dam completed in 1900 primarily for recreational purposes along the Little Bull Swamp Creek.
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Summary
Standing at a height of 14 feet and a length of 625 feet, the dam provides a storage capacity of 77 acre-feet with a surface area of 13 acres. Despite its age, the dam is in fair condition and poses a significant hazard potential, prompting regular inspections by the state regulatory agency, SC DHEC.
Maintaining the dam's integrity is crucial for both water resource management and climate resilience in the region. With the potential for significant impact in case of failure, it is essential for the owner and regulators to work together to ensure the safety and functionality of Layseth Mill Pond Dam. The dam's role in providing recreational opportunities and its location within the Savannah District underscores the importance of proactive risk management measures and emergency preparedness plans.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts, staying informed about Layseth Mill Pond Dam and its condition can help us advocate for sustainable dam management practices and support efforts to address potential risks. By understanding the dam's purpose, design, and regulatory framework, we can contribute to the preservation of this infrastructure while promoting resilience in the face of changing climate conditions.
Year Completed |
1900 |
Dam Length |
625 |
Dam Height |
14 |
River Or Stream |
LITTLE BULL SWAMP CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
13 |
Nid Storage |
77 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
14 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Layseth Mill Pond Dam