Edna Ward Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Edna Ward Pond Dam, located in Clarendon, South Carolina, is a privately owned structure primarily used for recreational purposes.


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Summary

Completed in 1955, this earth dam stands at a height of 10 feet and stretches 410 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 57 acre-feet. Despite its modest size, the dam poses a high hazard potential due to its proximity to the TR-BIG BRANCH river or stream.

The dam's condition is currently assessed as fair, with the last inspection conducted in March 2019. While it meets state regulatory requirements for permitting, inspection, and enforcement, its emergency action plan (EAP) status and risk management measures remain unclear. With Congressman James E. Clyburn representing the district, stakeholders and enthusiasts in water resource and climate fields may find Edna Ward Pond Dam an intriguing case study for exploring the intersection of recreational infrastructure, environmental impact, and safety considerations.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts delve into the details of Edna Ward Pond Dam, they can uncover a rich tapestry of challenges and opportunities in managing small-scale recreational structures. From assessing hazard potential to exploring emergency preparedness and risk management, this dam serves as a microcosm of larger issues facing water infrastructure in South Carolina. With its location in the Charleston District and historical significance dating back to the mid-20th century, Edna Ward Pond Dam offers a compelling lens through which to examine the evolving landscape of dam safety and environmental stewardship in the region.

Year Completed

1955

Dam Length

410

Dam Height

10

River Or Stream

TR-BIG BRANCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

11

Nid Storage

57

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

10
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

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.