Hughes Pond Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Hughes Pond Dam, also known as Jones Pond Dam, is a privately owned structure located in Orangeburg, South Carolina.
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Summary
Completed in 1920, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 11 feet and has a length of 609 feet, creating a surface area of 10 acres and a storage capacity of 62 acre-feet. Situated on Big Beaver Creek, the dam primarily serves as a recreational resource for the local community.
Despite its low hazard potential, the dam is in poor condition and was last inspected in July 2017. The inspection frequency is every five years, and the risk assessment is moderate. While the dam's purpose is for recreation, its spillway type is uncontrolled with a width of 0 feet. The dam's primary owner is listed as private, and it falls under state regulation by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC).
Overall, Hughes Pond Dam presents a unique blend of historical significance and potential environmental risk, making it an intriguing subject for water resource and climate enthusiasts. As discussions around dam safety and maintenance continue to evolve, monitoring the condition and management of this dam will be crucial for ensuring the safety of the surrounding community and preserving the recreational opportunities it provides.
Year Completed |
1920 |
Dam Length |
609 |
Dam Height |
11 |
River Or Stream |
BIG BEAVER CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
10 |
Nid Storage |
62 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
11 |
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.
Hughes Pond Dam