Mccowns Millpond Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Ramsey Pond Dam Jeffords Pond Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Mccowns Millpond Dam, located in Darlington, South Carolina, is a privately owned structure that has been regulating the flow of Bellyache Creek since its completion in 1965.
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Summary
Standing at a height of 12 feet and stretching 340 feet in length, this earth dam serves multiple purposes including recreation and other activities. With a storage capacity of 89 acre-feet, the dam covers a surface area of 19 acres and is equipped with a low hazard potential.
Despite its age, Mccowns Millpond Dam has not been rated for its condition as of the last inspection in November 2017. However, with regular inspections every five years and a low hazard potential, the dam continues to provide valuable water resource management for the surrounding area. As a significant feature in the local landscape, this structure plays a key role in maintaining the ecological balance and providing recreational opportunities for the community.
With its location in the Wilmington District and state regulation by SC DHEC, Mccowns Millpond Dam showcases the importance of responsible dam management in the face of changing climate conditions. As climate enthusiasts and water resource advocates, it is crucial to monitor and support the upkeep of such structures to ensure their continued effectiveness in managing water flow and preserving the surrounding environment for future generations.
Year Completed |
1965 |
Dam Length |
340 |
Dam Height |
12 |
River Or Stream |
BELLYACHE CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
19 |
Nid Storage |
89 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
12 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Black Creek Near Quinby
|
376cfs |
Black Creek Near Hartsville
|
142cfs |
Lynches River Near Bishopville
|
425cfs |
Pee Dee River Nr Bennettsville
|
2500cfs |
Black Creek Near Mcbee
|
128cfs |
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.
Mccowns Millpond Dam