Hightower Millpond Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Turners Pond Dam Dobsons Pond Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Hightower Millpond Dam, located in Bamberg, South Carolina, is a privately owned earth dam that was completed in 1964 for recreational purposes.
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Summary
Standing at a height of 11 feet and stretching 790 feet in length, this dam has a storage capacity of 392 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 98 acres. Situated on the Little Salkehatchie River, this dam is regulated by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (SC DHEC) and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations.
Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment in 2017 reported it as poor. With an inspection frequency of five years, the last assessment revealed the need for maintenance or repairs to improve its condition. While the dam has not undergone any modifications in recent years, its emergency action plan (EAP) status, risk assessment, and inundation mapping preparedness remain unclear. Despite its current condition assessment, the Hightower Millpond Dam continues to serve as a recreational resource in the area and plays a vital role in water management and conservation efforts along the Little Salkehatchie River.
Enthusiasts of water resources and climate in South Carolina may find Hightower Millpond Dam to be a fascinating case study in dam maintenance and regulation. With its historical significance dating back to the 1960s and its ties to the local community as a recreational hub, the dam's condition assessment and regulatory oversight offer insights into the challenges and responsibilities associated with managing essential water infrastructure in the region. As efforts to address the dam's poor condition and improve its safety continue, it serves as a reminder of the importance of proactive maintenance and monitoring in safeguarding water resources for future generations.
Year Completed |
1964 |
Dam Length |
790 |
Dam Height |
11 |
River Or Stream |
LITTLE SALKEHATCHIE RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
98 |
Nid Storage |
392 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
11 |
Seasonal Comparison
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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.
Hightower Millpond Dam