Frank Mcmakin Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Frank Mcmakin Dam, also known as Mcmakin Pond Dam, is a private dam located in Spartanburg, South Carolina, along the TR-NORTH TYGER RIVER.


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Summary

Built in 1959 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 40 feet and has a length of 220 feet, creating a storage capacity of 158 acre-feet for recreational purposes. Despite its significant hazard potential and poor condition assessment, the dam is regularly inspected by the SC DHEC to ensure public safety.

With a spillway type of "Uncontrolled" and uncontrolled outlet gates, Frank Mcmakin Dam poses a moderate risk level. The dam's emergency action plan was last updated in May 2017, and it meets regulatory guidelines. The surrounding area covers 10 acres, providing recreational opportunities for visitors. Additionally, the dam has a state permit, undergoes regular inspections, and is subject to state regulations and enforcement to maintain its structural integrity and safety standards.

Overall, Frank Mcmakin Dam serves as an important recreational asset in South Carolina, offering a picturesque location for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy. While facing certain risks due to its age and condition, the dam's regulatory oversight and maintenance efforts ensure that it remains a safe and enjoyable destination for water resource and climate enthusiasts alike.

Year Completed

1959

Dam Length

220

Dam Height

40

River Or Stream

TR-NORTH TYGER RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

10

Nid Storage

158

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

40
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.