Smoke Pond Dam, located in Calhoun, South Carolina, is a private earth dam constructed in 1965 primarily for recreational purposes. Standing at a height of 20 feet and stretching 650 feet in length, the dam impounds the waters of Antley Spring Branch, creating a reservoir with a normal storage capacity of 86 acre-feet. Despite being privately owned, the dam is regulated by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control, with regular inspections ensuring its structural integrity.

With a significant hazard potential and a fair condition assessment as of March 2021, Smoke Pond Dam is closely monitored to mitigate any risks associated with potential failure. The dam's emergency action plan (EAP) status and risk management measures remain unspecified, indicating a need for continued readiness in case of emergencies. While the dam has not been modified in recent years and lacks certain features like spillways and outlet gates, its historical importance in providing recreational opportunities underscores the importance of maintaining its safety and functionality for water resource and climate enthusiasts in the region.

Situated within the Savannah District of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Smoke Pond Dam serves as a reminder of the intersection between human infrastructure and natural landscapes. As climate change impacts water resources worldwide, the monitoring and maintenance of dams like Smoke Pond become even more critical to ensure the safety of communities and the preservation of ecosystems. With its location in a region susceptible to extreme weather events, ongoing attention to the condition and management of Smoke Pond Dam is essential to safeguarding both recreational opportunities and the surrounding environment.