James Albergotti Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Caw Caw Pond Dam Julian Ott Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
James Albergotti Dam in Orangeburg, South Carolina, is a privately owned structure regulated by the state's Department of Health and Environmental Control.
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Summary
This earth-type dam stands at a height of 15 feet and stretches 600 feet in length, creating a reservoir with a storage capacity of 54 acre-feet primarily for recreational purposes on the North Fork Edisto River. Despite its fair condition assessment, the dam poses a high hazard potential, emphasizing the importance of regular inspections and risk management measures.
Located within the Savannah District of the US Army Corps of Engineers jurisdiction, James Albergotti Dam is subject to state permitting, inspection, and enforcement. The dam's spillway is uncontrolled, and its hazard potential is deemed moderate with a risk assessment score of 3. While the dam's current condition is fair, there is a need for continued monitoring and potentially implementing emergency action plans to ensure the safety of downstream communities and the surrounding environment.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, the James Albergotti Dam presents a unique case study in dam safety and risk management. With its private ownership and state regulation, this structure serves as a reminder of the critical role dams play in providing recreational opportunities while also posing potential hazards that must be carefully managed. As climate change continues to impact water resources, understanding the complexities of dam infrastructure and the importance of proactive maintenance and monitoring is essential for ensuring the resilience of our water systems in the face of evolving environmental challenges.
Dam Length |
600 |
Dam Height |
15 |
River Or Stream |
TR-NORTH FORK EDISTO RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
8 |
Nid Storage |
54 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
15 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
North Fork Edisto River At Orangeburg
|
950cfs |
South Fork Edisto River Near Bamberg
|
906cfs |
South Fork Edisto River Near Cope
|
838cfs |
South Fork Edisto River Near Denmark
|
805cfs |
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.
James Albergotti Dam