Robert Wright Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Jowers Pond Dam Willis Millpond Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Robert Wright Dam, located in Barnwell, South Carolina, stands as a testament to the importance of water resource management and climate resilience.
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Summary
Completed in 1957, this private-owned earthen dam serves primarily for recreation on the TR-SPUR BRANCH river or stream. With a height of 17 feet and a length of 540 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 157 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 16 acres.
Despite its low hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment in 2017 rated it as poor, highlighting the need for ongoing maintenance and improvements to ensure its continued safety and functionality. The dam's risk assessment, classified as moderate, emphasizes the importance of implementing effective risk management measures to address any potential vulnerabilities. With the dam falling under South Carolina DHEC's regulatory oversight, it is crucial for stakeholders to work together to safeguard this vital infrastructure for both recreational and environmental purposes.
Robert Wright Dam serves as a vital water management structure in the region, providing recreational opportunities while also facing challenges related to its condition and risk assessment. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is essential to monitor and support efforts to maintain and enhance the dam's resilience in the face of changing environmental conditions. By staying informed and engaged, we can contribute to the sustainable management of this important water resource for the benefit of current and future generations.
Year Completed |
1957 |
Dam Length |
540 |
Dam Height |
17 |
River Or Stream |
TR-SPUR BRANCH |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
16 |
Nid Storage |
157 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
17 |
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.
Robert Wright Dam