Bonnettes Ricefield Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Mounts Pond Dam Smith/Culler Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Bonnettes Ricefield Dam, also known as Edwards/Pugh Dam, is a privately owned structure located in Orangeburg, South Carolina.
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Summary
This earth dam was completed in 1939 and serves primarily for recreational purposes, with a height of 12 feet and a length of 740 feet. The dam has a storage capacity of 110 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 57 acre-feet and a surface area of 15 acres.
Despite its low hazard potential, the dam has been rated as being in poor condition as of the last inspection in July 2017. The dam is regulated by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) and undergoes regular inspections every five years. While the dam has not been modified in recent years, its maintenance and overall condition raise concerns about its long-term safety and effectiveness in managing water resources in the area.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Bonnettes Ricefield Dam represents a historic piece of infrastructure that contributes to the local landscape and provides recreational opportunities. However, the dam's poor condition and limited maintenance raise questions about its long-term sustainability and the potential risks it may pose to surrounding communities. This case highlights the importance of regular inspections and maintenance to ensure the safety and functionality of essential water management structures in the face of changing climate conditions.
Year Completed |
1939 |
Dam Length |
740 |
Dam Height |
12 |
River Or Stream |
DOUBLE BRANCH |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
15 |
Nid Storage |
110 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
12 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
North Fork Edisto River At Orangeburg
|
950cfs |
South Fork Edisto River Near Denmark
|
805cfs |
South Fork Edisto River Near Cope
|
838cfs |
South Fork Edisto River Near Bamberg
|
906cfs |
Wateree R. Bl Eastover
|
2400cfs |
Gills Creek At Columbia
|
76cfs |
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.
Bonnettes Ricefield Dam