Thomas Mccants Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Thomas Mccants Dam, located in Orangeburg, South Carolina, is a private-owned structure primarily used for recreational purposes.


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Summary

The dam, with a height of 16 feet and a length of 1900 feet, spans the TR-MIDDLE PEN SWAMP river or stream. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment is rated as poor, with the last inspection conducted in July 2017. The dam has a storage capacity of 60 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 48 acre-feet, covering a surface area of 6 acres.

With the Savannah District of the USACE overseeing the dam, it is important to note that the dam is state regulated by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC). Even though the dam's primary purpose is for recreation, there are concerns regarding its structural integrity and maintenance due to its poor condition assessment. Climate and water resource enthusiasts may find interest in monitoring the updates on the dam's condition, inspection frequency, and any risk management measures that may be implemented to ensure public safety and environmental protection.

In light of the data provided, it is crucial for stakeholders to stay informed about the Thomas Mccants Dam's status and any potential risks associated with its operation. With the dam located in a state-regulated area and under the oversight of the USACE, continued monitoring and adherence to safety guidelines are essential to prevent any potential hazards and ensure the sustainable use of this water resource for recreational purposes in the Orangeburg, South Carolina area.

Dam Length

1900

Dam Height

16

River Or Stream

TR-MIDDLE PEN SWAMP

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

6

Nid Storage

60

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

16
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

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.