Martin Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Greenville, South Carolina, Martin Pond Dam, also known as James Martin Pond Dam, is a privately owned structure built in 1949 primarily for recreational purposes.


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Summary

Standing at 17 feet tall and stretching 340 feet in length, this earth dam holds a maximum storage capacity of 97 acre-feet with a normal storage capacity of 75 acre-feet. The dam overlooks Payne Branch, offering a serene setting for water resource and climate enthusiasts to explore.

Despite its low hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment as of May 2017 was rated as poor. It is regulated by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC), which conducts regular inspections and enforcement to ensure its safety. The last inspection conducted in 2017 suggested that the dam may require maintenance or repairs to meet safety standards.

While the dam serves as a popular spot for recreational activities, its poor condition raises concerns about its long-term sustainability. To mitigate potential risks and ensure the safety of the surrounding community, it may be necessary for the dam owner to invest in necessary upgrades or repairs to bring it up to acceptable standards.

Year Completed

1949

Dam Length

340

Dam Height

17

River Or Stream

PAYNE BRANCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

11

Nid Storage

97

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

17
       
Seasonal Comparison

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Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No 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

High
Dams 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.