Sowells Pond Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: King Millpond Dam Charles Luthers Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Sowells Pond Dam is a privately owned earth dam located in Chesterfield, South Carolina, along the TR-LYNCHES RIVER.
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Summary
Completed in 1950, this recreational dam stands at 14 feet tall and spans 215 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 55 acre-feet. Despite its fair condition assessment as of December 2020, the dam poses a significant hazard potential, prompting inspections every three years to ensure public safety.
While the dam's primary purpose is for recreation, its uncontrolled spillway type and moderate risk assessment level indicate the need for continued risk management measures. The dam's ownership by a private entity and state regulation by SC DHEC highlight the importance of effective enforcement and inspection practices to prevent failure and protect downstream communities. With a historical context dating back to the mid-20th century, Sowells Pond Dam serves as a reminder of the critical role of water resource management in the face of changing climate conditions.
Year Completed |
1950 |
Dam Length |
215 |
Dam Height |
14 |
River Or Stream |
TR-LYNCHES RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
9 |
Nid Storage |
55 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
14 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Black Creek Near Hartsville
|
142cfs |
Black Creek Near Mcbee
|
128cfs |
Lynches River Near Bishopville
|
425cfs |
Wateree River Nr. Camden
|
2170cfs |
Pee Dee River Nr Bennettsville
|
2500cfs |
Black Creek Near Quinby
|
376cfs |
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.
Sowells Pond Dam