Barbara Williams Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Barbara Williams Dam is a private-owned structure located in Orangeburg, South Carolina, along the TR-North Fork Edisto River.
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Summary
With a primary purpose of recreation, this Earth type dam stands at a height of 13 feet and spans 395 feet in length. The dam has a storage capacity of 54 acre-feet and a surface area of 8 acres, making it a popular destination for water resource and climate enthusiasts seeking outdoor recreational activities.
Despite its low hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment indicates poor maintenance as of July 2017. The risk assessment has been classified as moderate, signaling the need for proactive risk management measures to ensure the safety and integrity of the structure. The dam is regulated by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC), which oversees permitting, inspection, and enforcement to ensure compliance with state regulations.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Barbara Williams Dam offers a unique opportunity to explore the intersection of water infrastructure and outdoor recreation. As a privately-owned facility with a focus on recreation, the dam provides a valuable resource for local communities and visitors alike. However, ongoing maintenance and risk management efforts are crucial to safeguarding the dam's structural integrity and ensuring the safety of those who enjoy its recreational benefits.
Dam Length |
395 |
Dam Height |
13 |
River Or Stream |
TR-NORTH FORK EDISTO RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
8 |
Nid Storage |
54 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
13 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
North Fork Edisto River At Orangeburg
|
950cfs |
South Fork Edisto River Near Cope
|
838cfs |
South Fork Edisto River Near Bamberg
|
906cfs |
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.
Barbara Williams Dam