Otts Pond Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Wannamakers Upper Dam Rast Pond Dam
Last Updated: December 22, 2025
Otts Pond Dam, located in Calhoun, South Carolina, is a private dam constructed in 1930 with a primary purpose of recreation.
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Summary
The dam stands at a height of 21 feet and stretches 550 feet in length, creating a reservoir with a storage capacity of 73 acre-feet. The dam is situated along the Little Beaver Creek and is regulated by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control.
Despite its low hazard potential, Otts Pond Dam is currently in poor condition as of the last inspection in 2017. The dam has a moderate risk assessment rating, indicating the need for potential risk management measures in the future. While the dam does not have an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) in place, it is subject to regular inspections every five years to ensure public safety and compliance with state regulations.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Otts Pond Dam serves as a notable structure in the Savannah District. With its earth design and buttress core, the dam provides a recreational space for residents while also highlighting the importance of maintaining infrastructure for both safety and environmental preservation in the face of changing climatic conditions.
Year Completed |
1930 |
Dam Length |
550 |
Dam Height |
21 |
River Or Stream |
LITTLE BEAVER CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
5 |
Nid Storage |
73 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
21 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
North Fork Edisto River At Orangeburg
|
553cfs |
Gills Creek At Columbia
|
71cfs |
Wateree R. Bl Eastover
|
2400cfs |
Congaree River At Columbia
|
3770cfs |
Saluda River Near Columbia
|
959cfs |
Smith Branch At North Main St At Columbia
|
4cfs |
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.
Otts Pond Dam