J Lanier Kennerly Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Jimmy Gardner Dam Twin Lakes Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
J Lanier Kennerly Dam, located in Orangeburg, South Carolina, is a privately owned structure primarily used for recreation purposes.
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Summary
Standing at a height of 20 feet and stretching 500 feet in length, this earth dam holds a storage capacity of 60 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 37 acre-feet. The dam overlooks the TR-ROBERTS SWAMP river or stream and is regulated by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control.
Despite its low hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment is rated as poor, with the last inspection in July 2017 revealing areas in need of improvement. The risk assessment for J Lanier Kennerly Dam is classified as very high, indicating potential vulnerabilities that require attention. While the dam has not undergone significant modifications since its completion, ongoing monitoring and maintenance are essential to ensure the safety and functionality of this vital water resource infrastructure in the region. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, J Lanier Kennerly Dam presents a unique opportunity to explore the intersection of recreation, water management, and environmental stewardship in a picturesque setting in South Carolina.
Dam Length |
500 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
TR-ROBERTS SWAMP |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
9 |
Nid Storage |
60 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
20 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
J Lanier Kennerly Dam