Coopers Large Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Coopers Large Pond Dam, also known as Millie Sue Willis Dam, is a privately owned earth dam located in Laurens, South Carolina.


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Summary

Built in 1976 by the USDA NRCS, this dam serves primarily for recreational purposes and stands at a height of 27 feet with a length of 1295 feet. The dam has a storage capacity of 128 acre-feet and a surface area of 12 acres, making it a significant feature in the area.

Despite its low hazard potential, the dam is currently in poor condition as of the last inspection in September 2017. With an inspection frequency of 5 years, the dam poses a moderate risk (rating of 3) and lacks a comprehensive emergency action plan. The dam is regulated by the SC DHEC and falls under the jurisdiction of the state. Water resource and climate enthusiasts will be intrigued by the history and current state of Coopers Large Pond Dam, as well as the potential risks and management measures associated with it.

Year Completed

1976

Dam Length

1295

Dam Height

27

River Or Stream

TR-BEAVERDAM CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

12

Nid Storage

128

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

27
       
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.