Oxpen Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Honker Dam C. S. Pool J Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Oxpen Dam, located in Chesterfield, South Carolina, is a Federal-owned structure primarily used for Fish and Wildlife Pond purposes.
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Summary
Built in 1964, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 17 feet and spans a length of 760 feet, with a storage capacity of 88 acre-feet. Situated on the Oxpen Branch river, the dam serves as a crucial habitat for fish and wildlife in the area.
Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential and fair condition assessment, Oxpen Dam is deemed to have a very high risk, according to a risk assessment rating of 1. The dam has not undergone any modifications in recent years, with its last inspection conducted in September 2015. While it does not fall under state jurisdiction for regulation, permitting, inspection, or enforcement, the dam remains a significant feature in the region's water resource and climate landscape, attracting enthusiasts and researchers alike.
As supporters of water resource conservation and climate resilience, individuals interested in Oxpen Dam can appreciate its role in sustaining local biodiversity and ecosystem health. With its controlled spillway and a drainage area of 0.8 square miles, the dam presents a unique opportunity for studying the intersection of infrastructure, environmental stewardship, and wildlife conservation. The data provides a compelling snapshot of Oxpen Dam's historical significance and ongoing importance in promoting sustainable water management practices in South Carolina.
Year Completed |
1964 |
Dam Length |
760 |
Dam Height |
17 |
River Or Stream |
OXPEN BRANCH |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
10 |
Hydraulic Height |
17 |
Drainage Area |
0.8 |
Nid Storage |
88 |
Structural Height |
17 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
17 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Black Creek Near Mcbee
|
108cfs |
Black Creek Near Hartsville
|
121cfs |
Lynches River Near Bishopville
|
443cfs |
Pee Dee River Nr Bennettsville
|
2460cfs |
Pee Dee R Nr Rockingham
|
1830cfs |
Wateree River Nr. Camden
|
1700cfs |
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.
Oxpen Dam