Spells Fish Pond Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Folks Pond Dam Morris Pond Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Located in Bamberg, South Carolina, Spells Fish Pond Dam, also known as Wr Spell Pond Dam, stands as a testament to the beauty and importance of water resources in the region.
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Summary
Built in 1968 by the USDA NRCS, this private dam primarily serves as a recreational spot for water enthusiasts. With a height of 11 feet and a length of 730 feet, the dam holds a storage capacity of 136 acre-feet, making it a vital part of the local ecosystem.
Despite its low hazard potential, Spells Fish Pond Dam is currently in poor condition, as assessed in August 2017. The dam's uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates raise concerns about its structural integrity and long-term viability. The risk assessment indicates a moderate risk level, prompting the need for regular inspections and potential risk management measures to ensure the safety of the surrounding communities and the environment.
As the Savannah District of the USACE oversees this earth dam, it is essential to address the poor condition and moderate risk level to prevent any potential disasters. With proper maintenance and risk management, Spells Fish Pond Dam can continue to provide recreational opportunities while safeguarding the water resources and climate in the area.
Year Completed |
1968 |
Dam Length |
730 |
Dam Height |
11 |
River Or Stream |
TR-SYKES SWAMP |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
18 |
Nid Storage |
136 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
11 |
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.
Spells Fish Pond Dam