Rudolph West Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Rudolph West Dam, located in Kershaw, South Carolina, is a privately owned earth dam primarily used for recreation purposes.
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Summary
Standing at 15 feet high and with a length of 254 feet, this dam has a storage capacity of 50 acre-feet and a surface area of 7 acres. The dam is regulated by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (SC DHEC) and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations.
Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, Rudolph West Dam is in poor condition based on a 2017 assessment. The dam has a history of modifications, although the exact years are unspecified, and it lacks emergency action plans and updated inundation maps. Its maintenance and risk management measures are unclear, raising concerns about its ability to withstand potential threats such as floods or extreme weather events. With a designated inspection frequency of 5 years, ongoing monitoring and maintenance are crucial to ensure the safety and longevity of this structure.
As a key feature in the TR-Cow Branch watershed, Rudolph West Dam plays a vital role in providing recreational opportunities for the local community. However, with its current condition and lack of comprehensive risk management measures, there is a need for increased attention and investment in ensuring the dam's resilience to climate-related challenges. By addressing the identified deficiencies and implementing effective emergency preparedness protocols, Rudolph West Dam can continue to serve as a valuable resource while safeguarding both the environment and public safety.
Dam Length |
254 |
Dam Height |
15 |
River Or Stream |
TR-COW BRANCH |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
7 |
Nid Storage |
50 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
15 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Wateree River Nr. Camden
|
1700cfs |
Black Creek Near Mcbee
|
108cfs |
Black Creek Near Hartsville
|
121cfs |
Lynches River Near Bishopville
|
443cfs |
Rocky Creek At Great Falls
|
17cfs |
Fishing Creek Below Fort Lawn
|
75cfs |
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.
Rudolph West Dam