Hoffman Pond Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Hoffman Pond Dam, also known as Shelton Hoffman Dam, is a privately-owned structure located in Orangeburg, South Carolina.
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Summary
Built in 1958 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 13 feet and stretches 750 feet in length. Serving primarily for recreational purposes, the dam holds a storage capacity of 57 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 6 acres.
Despite its low hazard potential, Hoffman Pond Dam is currently in poor condition as of the last inspection in July 2017. With a moderate risk assessment rating of 3, there is a need for improved risk management measures to ensure the safety and integrity of the structure. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, posing potential challenges in the event of heavy rainfall or flooding.
Managed by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC), Hoffman Pond Dam is subject to state regulations and inspections to maintain compliance with safety standards. Water resource and climate enthusiasts may find interest in monitoring the ongoing efforts to address the dam's condition and implement necessary improvements for the protection of surrounding areas and communities.
Year Completed |
1958 |
Dam Length |
750 |
Dam Height |
13 |
River Or Stream |
TR-BULL SWAMP CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
6 |
Nid Storage |
57 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
13 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
North Fork Edisto River At Orangeburg
|
950cfs |
South Fork Edisto River Near Denmark
|
805cfs |
Congaree River At Columbia
|
4580cfs |
Gills Creek At Columbia
|
76cfs |
South Fork Edisto River Near Cope
|
838cfs |
Saluda River Near Columbia
|
770cfs |
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.
Hoffman Pond Dam