Owens Pond Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Robert Collins Dam Handberry Pond Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Owens Pond Dam, located in Barnwell, South Carolina, was completed in 1958 and serves as a crucial recreational resource for the local community.
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Summary
Standing at a height of 13 feet and stretching 700 feet in length, this earth dam holds a maximum storage capacity of 89 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 53 acre-feet. The dam, constructed primarily of stone and soil, spans the Patterson Branch river/stream and is under the regulatory oversight of the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control.
Despite being classified as having a significant hazard potential, Owens Pond Dam is currently assessed to be in fair condition as of the last inspection in October 2020. The dam is subject to regular inspections every three years to ensure its structural integrity and the safety of the surrounding area. While no emergency action plan (EAP) is currently in place, the dam has not required any modifications since its completion and remains a vital asset for recreational activities in the region. With its picturesque setting and important role in providing water resources for recreational use, Owens Pond Dam stands as a testament to the importance of properly managing and maintaining our water infrastructure in the face of changing climate conditions.
Year Completed |
1958 |
Dam Length |
700 |
Dam Height |
13 |
River Or Stream |
PATTERSON BRANCH |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
12 |
Nid Storage |
89 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
13 |
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.
Owens Pond Dam