Thomas Pellet Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Ziegenfuss Pond Dam Knights Pond Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Thomas Pellet Dam, located in Laurens, South Carolina, serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock, small fish pond, and recreation.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Owned by a private entity, the dam was designed by USDA NRCS and completed in 1974. Standing at a height of 15 feet and with a length of 1230 feet, the earth dam has a storage capacity of 59 acre-feet and a surface area of 7 acres.
Managed by SC DHEC, the dam is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by state authorities. The hazard potential is classified as low, with a fair condition assessment as of the last inspection in October 2017. The risk assessment is moderate, with a designated risk level of 3. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, with no associated locks.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Thomas Pellet Dam presents an intriguing case study in dam management and maintenance. With its multiple functions and state regulation, the dam highlights the importance of balancing water resource needs with environmental protection and safety considerations. The dam's history, design, and risk assessment provide valuable insights for those interested in sustainable water management practices and climate resilience strategies.
Year Completed |
1974 |
Dam Length |
1230 |
Dam Height |
15 |
River Or Stream |
TR-REEDY RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
7 |
Nid Storage |
59 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
15 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Thomas Pellet Dam