Folks Lower Pond Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Folks Upper Pond Dam Bates Pond Dam
Last Updated: December 14, 2025
Folks Lower Pond Dam, located in Barnwell, South Carolina, was completed in 1955 for the primary purpose of recreation.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
This private-owned earth dam stands at a height of 15 feet and has a length of 710 feet, creating a reservoir with a storage capacity of 210 acre-feet. Although the dam's hazard potential is classified as "High," its condition assessment as of April 2019 was deemed "Fair."
Managed and regulated by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (SC DHEC), Folks Lower Pond Dam is subject to state permitting, inspection, and enforcement. The dam, situated on TR-ROSEMARY CREEK, serves as a popular recreational spot with a surface area of 22 acres. Despite its age, the dam continues to provide valuable water resources for the surrounding community while also posing challenges that require ongoing monitoring and risk management measures.
With Congressman Joe Wilson (R) representing the area, Folks Lower Pond Dam remains a vital piece of infrastructure in the region. Its historical significance, combined with its role in water resource management and climate resilience, underscores the importance of ensuring the safety and stability of this earth dam for future generations to enjoy and benefit from.
Year Completed |
1955 |
Dam Length |
710 |
Dam Height |
15 |
River Or Stream |
TR-ROSEMARY CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
22 |
Nid Storage |
210 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
15 |
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.
Folks Lower Pond Dam