Bridlewood Upper Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Bridlewood Upper Dam, located in Chesterfield, South Carolina, was completed in 1977 and serves as a vital water resource for the area.
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Summary
Managed by a private owner, the dam is primarily used for recreation purposes, offering a serene setting for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy activities such as fishing, boating, and picnicking. With a storage capacity of 60 acre-feet and a surface area of 7 acres, the dam plays a crucial role in maintaining the water levels of Thompson Creek.
Despite its importance, the dam's current condition is assessed as poor, with a significant hazard potential identified. Regular inspections are conducted to ensure the safety and integrity of the structure, with the most recent assessment done in January 2021. With its earth core and stone foundation, the dam stands at a height of 10 feet and spans a length of 390 feet. While the dam is state-regulated and inspected, efforts to improve its condition and reduce potential risks may be necessary to safeguard the surrounding community and enhance its recreational value.
As climate change continues to impact water resources and infrastructure, the management and maintenance of dams like Bridlewood Upper Dam become increasingly crucial. With a focus on risk assessment and management, as well as emergency preparedness, stakeholders must work together to address the dam's poor condition and mitigate potential hazards. By prioritizing safety measures and investing in necessary upgrades, Bridlewood Upper Dam can continue to provide essential water resources and recreational opportunities for the community while adapting to the changing climate dynamics.
Year Completed |
1977 |
Dam Length |
390 |
Dam Height |
10 |
River Or Stream |
TR-THOMPSON CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
7 |
Nid Storage |
60 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
10 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Pee Dee River Nr Bennettsville
|
2460cfs |
Black Creek Near Mcbee
|
108cfs |
Pee Dee R Nr Rockingham
|
1830cfs |
Black Creek Near Hartsville
|
121cfs |
Big Shoe Heel Creek Nr Laurinburg
|
82cfs |
Black Creek Near Quinby
|
350cfs |
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Cheraw State Park
|
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H. Cooper Black
|
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Sugarloaf Mountain Rec Area - Sand Hills State Forest
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Bridlewood Upper Dam