Turners Pond Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Turners Pond Dam, also known as J D Turner Dam, is a privately owned structure in Bamberg, South Carolina, completed in 1954 for recreational purposes.
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Summary
The earth dam stands at a height of 16 feet, with a length of 440 feet and a storage capacity of 112 acre-feet. Situated on the TR-Little Salkehatchie River, the dam is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by the SC DHEC, ensuring its safety and compliance with state regulations.
Although Turners Pond Dam serves primarily for recreation, its significant hazard potential and poor condition assessment raise concerns about its safety and maintenance. The last inspection in August 2017 revealed the need for improvement, with an inspection frequency of every 3 years. With no emergency action plan prepared or updated, the dam's risk management measures and compliance with guidelines remain uncertain, highlighting the importance of addressing potential safety issues and implementing necessary upgrades to ensure the protection of surrounding communities and water resources.
With its location in the Savannah District and ownership under private entities, Turners Pond Dam plays a crucial role in providing recreational opportunities while also posing a potential risk to its surroundings. As climate and water resource enthusiasts, understanding the dam's design, condition, and regulatory oversight is essential for promoting sustainable water management practices and ensuring the safety of dams in the region. By staying informed and advocating for proper maintenance and risk mitigation measures, enthusiasts can contribute to the preservation of Turners Pond Dam and other vital water infrastructure in South Carolina.
Year Completed |
1954 |
Dam Length |
440 |
Dam Height |
16 |
River Or Stream |
TR-LITTLE SALKEHATCHIE RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
16 |
Nid Storage |
112 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
16 |
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.
Turners Pond Dam