Bolens Fishing Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Bolens Fishing Lake Dam, also known as Lizzie Bolen Dam, is a private dam located in Barnwell, South Carolina.


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Summary

Completed in 1958, this earth dam stands at 20 feet in height and spans 960 feet in length. The primary purpose of this structure is for recreation, providing a surface area of 36 acres for fishing and other water activities.

Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment is rated as poor. The last inspection in August 2017 revealed the need for maintenance and potential risk management measures due to its very high risk assessment rating. With a normal storage capacity of 88 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 144 acre-feet, Bolens Fishing Lake Dam serves as a crucial water resource in the area, with the responsibility of regulation falling under South Carolina's Department of Health and Environmental Control.

Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will find Bolens Fishing Lake Dam to be an intriguing case study, highlighting the importance of proper maintenance and risk management for ensuring the safety and longevity of essential infrastructure. As discussions around climate change and its impact on water resources continue, the resilience and effectiveness of dams like Bolens Fishing Lake Dam serve as a reminder of the ongoing need for proactive measures to mitigate potential hazards and secure sustainable water management practices in the face of evolving environmental challenges.

Year Completed

1958

Dam Length

960

Dam Height

20

River Or Stream

BUCK CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

36

Nid Storage

144

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

20
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No 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

High
Dams 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.