Dogwood Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Dogwood Lake Dam, located in Darlington, South Carolina, stands as a testament to the importance of water resources in the region.
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Summary
Completed in 1958, this private-owned dam serves primarily for recreational purposes, offering a tranquil oasis for visitors to enjoy. With a height of 14 feet and a length of 348 feet, the dam creates a reservoir with a storage capacity of 52 acre-feet, providing essential water resources for the surrounding area.
Despite its recreational function, Dogwood Lake Dam poses a high hazard potential, necessitating frequent inspections and maintenance to ensure its structural integrity. The dam's condition was last assessed as fair in January 2019, with inspection reports indicating a need for ongoing monitoring and risk management measures. The dam is regulated by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control, underscoring the importance of government oversight in safeguarding water resources and mitigating potential risks.
Situated on the Cogdell Branch and overseen by the Wilmington District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, Dogwood Lake Dam is a vital component of the local water infrastructure. As climate change continues to impact the region, the dam's role in managing water resources and providing recreational opportunities becomes increasingly crucial. With its rich history and essential function, Dogwood Lake Dam stands as a symbol of the intricate relationship between water resources, climate, and human activity in South Carolina.
Year Completed |
1958 |
Dam Length |
348 |
Dam Height |
14 |
River Or Stream |
COGDELL BRANCH |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
6 |
Nid Storage |
52 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
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 |
Black Creek Near Quinby
|
376cfs |
Pee Dee River Nr Bennettsville
|
2500cfs |
Lynches River At Effingham
|
852cfs |
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.
Dogwood Lake Dam