Tatums Pond Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: W D Rhoad Iv Dam Sc Elec & Gas Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Tatums Pond Dam, also known as Dorothy Tatum Dam, is a private dam located in Bamberg, South Carolina, along the TR-SOUTH EDISTO RIVER.
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Summary
Completed in 1952, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 10 feet and stretches 450 feet in length, providing a maximum storage capacity of 77 acre-feet for recreational purposes. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment in 2017 revealed poor structural integrity, indicating a need for maintenance and repairs to ensure public safety.
Managed by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (SC DHEC), Tatums Pond Dam is subject to state regulations, inspections, and enforcement to uphold safety standards. The dam's risk assessment has been classified as "Very High (1)", highlighting the importance of implementing effective risk management measures. With its controlled spillway and limited emergency preparedness measures, there is a pressing need for improved maintenance and emergency response planning to mitigate potential risks and safeguard the surrounding community and environment.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts, the data on Tatums Pond Dam serves as a reminder of the critical role that infrastructure plays in balancing human recreation with environmental protection. By addressing the dam's maintenance needs and enhancing emergency preparedness, stakeholders can ensure the continued safety and sustainability of this recreational reservoir while promoting resilience in the face of changing climatic conditions.
Year Completed |
1952 |
Dam Length |
450 |
Dam Height |
10 |
River Or Stream |
TR-SOUTH EDISTO RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
13 |
Nid Storage |
77 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
10 |
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.
Tatums Pond Dam