Barnwell St Park Lwr Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Barnwell St Park Lwr Dam is a state-owned structure located in Barnwell, South Carolina, along the Toby Creek.
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Summary
Completed in 1950, this earth dam stands at a height of 20 feet and has a length of 440 feet, providing a normal storage capacity of 44 acre-feet. The dam serves multiple purposes, including recreation, and is regulated by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC).
Despite its significant storage capacity and recreational value, Barnwell St Park Lwr Dam has been assessed as being in poor condition with a high hazard potential. The last inspection in May 2020 revealed the dam's deteriorating state, prompting concerns about its safety and the need for potential risk management measures. The dam's emergency action plan (EAP) status and adherence to guidelines remain unclear, highlighting the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance efforts.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Barnwell St Park Lwr Dam presents an intriguing case study of a vital infrastructure in need of attention and potential improvements. With its historical significance, diverse purposes, and regulatory oversight, this dam serves as a focal point for discussions on dam safety, risk assessment, and emergency preparedness in the face of changing environmental conditions. As efforts to address its condition and potential risks continue, stakeholders and officials must collaborate to ensure the long-term resilience and sustainability of this essential water resource structure.
Year Completed |
1950 |
Dam Length |
440 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
TOBY CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
10 |
Nid Storage |
94 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
20 |
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.
Barnwell St Park Lwr Dam