James A Thompson Dam 1 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 25, 2025
James A Thompson Dam 1, located in Chester, South Carolina, is a privately-owned earth dam built in 1950 for recreational purposes.
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Summary
Standing at a height of 23 feet and with a length of 350 feet, this dam creates a reservoir with a storage capacity of 58 acre-feet. Despite its primary purpose for recreation, the dam is classified as having a significant hazard potential and a poor condition assessment as of its last inspection in August 2019.
The dam, situated on Bear Branch, is regulated by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) and is subject to state jurisdiction, permitting, inspection, and enforcement. Surrounded by a surface area of 10 acres, the dam poses a risk that necessitates an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) to be developed and updated to meet guidelines. With a designated inspection frequency of every three years, the dam's condition and hazard potential are closely monitored to ensure the safety of the surrounding community and environment.
As a vital structure in the region, James A Thompson Dam 1 serves not only as a recreational spot but also as a significant part of the water resource management system in the area. Its existence highlights the importance of balancing the benefits of water storage and recreation with the necessary measures to mitigate potential risks and ensure the dam's structural integrity for years to come.
Year Completed |
1950 |
Dam Length |
350 |
Dam Height |
23 |
River Or Stream |
BEAR BRANCH |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
10 |
Nid Storage |
58 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
23 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Broad River Near Carlisle
|
1760cfs |
Fishing Creek Below Fort Lawn
|
37cfs |
Rocky Creek At Great Falls
|
16cfs |
Wildcat Creek Below Rock Hill
|
3cfs |
Tyger River Near Delta
|
351cfs |
Enoree River At Whitmire
|
219cfs |
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.
James A Thompson Dam 1
Neal Shoals Reservoir Near Carlisle