Bolens Pond Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Bolens Pond Dam, also known as Bonetta Bolen Pond Dam, is a private structure located in Barnwell, South Carolina, serving primarily for recreational purposes.
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Summary
Built in 1958, this Earth dam stands at a height of 16 feet and spans 575 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 144 acre-feet. Situated on TR-WHALEY CREEK, the dam is regulated by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (SC DHEC) and undergoes regular inspections, with the last assessment conducted in August 2017.
Despite being classified with a low hazard potential, Bolens Pond Dam's condition has been assessed as poor, raising concerns about its structural integrity and safety standards. The dam lacks an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) and detailed risk assessment measures, highlighting the need for improved emergency preparedness and risk management protocols. With its proximity to residential areas, the dam's current condition underscores the importance of addressing maintenance and rehabilitation needs to ensure the safety of surrounding communities and the preservation of the environment.
As a key water resource in the region, Bolens Pond Dam's significance extends beyond its recreational value, serving as a crucial infrastructure for water storage and management. Its condition assessment and risk evaluation highlight the ongoing challenges faced by aging dams in maintaining safety standards and regulatory compliance. Moving forward, prioritizing necessary upgrades and risk mitigation strategies will be essential to safeguarding the dam's functionality and protecting downstream communities from potential hazards.
Year Completed |
1958 |
Dam Length |
575 |
Dam Height |
16 |
River Or Stream |
TR-WHALEY CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
19 |
Nid Storage |
144 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
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.
Bolens Pond Dam