Davidson Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Davidson Dam, located in Kershaw, South Carolina, is a privately owned earth dam that spans 350 feet in length and stands at a height of 13 feet.
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Summary
With a primary purpose of recreation, the dam impounds the Thoroughfare Branch river and offers a storage capacity of 72 acre-feet, with normal storage levels averaging at 55 acre-feet. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam's condition has been assessed as poor, with the last inspection in March 2017 revealing the need for improvements.
Managed by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC), Davidson Dam is subject to state jurisdiction and regulation, with permitting, inspection, and enforcement processes in place. Although the dam's risk assessment and emergency action plan are currently unspecified, the structure presents opportunities for water resource and climate enthusiasts to engage in monitoring and advocacy efforts to ensure its safety and sustainability. With its proximity to the Thoroughfare Branch river and recreational potential, Davidson Dam serves as a focal point for both environmental stewardship and community enjoyment in the region.
Dam Length |
350 |
Dam Height |
13 |
River Or Stream |
TR-THOROUGHFARE BRANCH |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
12 |
Nid Storage |
72 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
13 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Wateree River Nr. Camden
|
2170cfs |
Lynches River Near Bishopville
|
425cfs |
Black Creek Near Hartsville
|
142cfs |
Black Creek Near Mcbee
|
128cfs |
Rocky Creek At Great Falls
|
19cfs |
Fishing Creek Below Fort Lawn
|
62cfs |
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.
Davidson Dam