Gramling Pond 3 Dam, also known as Gramling Bros Pond Dam 3, is a private structure located in Spartanburg, South Carolina, along the TR-Lake William C Bowen river or stream. Built in 1965 by USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at 27 feet tall and stretches 383 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 84 acre-feet primarily for irrigation purposes. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment is marked as poor, indicating a need for inspection and maintenance.

The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, with a surface area of 8 acres and a normal storage capacity of 60 acre-feet. While it has not undergone significant modifications in recent years, the structure is regulated by SC DHEC and subject to state inspection and enforcement. With a moderate risk rating, this dam serves as a critical water resource in the region, highlighting the importance of ongoing risk management measures and adherence to safety guidelines.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Gramling Pond 3 Dam presents an intriguing case study in dam infrastructure and management. From its origins as an irrigation reservoir to its current state of poor condition assessment, this private earth dam exemplifies the complex interplay between human engineering, natural resources, and regulatory oversight. As efforts to address climate change and water scarcity intensify, the maintenance and monitoring of structures like Gramling Pond 3 Dam will be crucial for ensuring the safety and sustainability of water resources in South Carolina and beyond.