Bedenbaugh Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 16, 2025

Bedenbaugh Pond Dam, located in Newberry, South Carolina, is a privately owned structure that serves as a recreational area for water resource and climate enthusiasts.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Built in 1990, this earth dam stands at a height of 26 feet with a length of 1010 feet, providing a storage capacity of 90 acre-feet. Despite its primary purpose for recreation, the dam is also state-regulated and undergoes regular inspections by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control to ensure its structural integrity.

With its location on the TR-Saluda River and a low hazard potential, Bedenbaugh Pond Dam offers a tranquil setting for outdoor activities and wildlife habitat. However, recent assessments have indicated a poor condition, prompting the need for potential risk management measures. As the dam continues to be a significant feature in the area, it is essential for stakeholders and authorities to prioritize maintenance and safety protocols to uphold its longevity and functionality for future generations of water enthusiasts.

As climate change impacts water resources and infrastructure, the maintenance and regulation of dams like Bedenbaugh Pond Dam become increasingly vital. With a focus on improving its condition assessment and risk management strategies, the dam can remain a valuable asset for recreation while ensuring the safety of surrounding communities and ecosystems. Collaboration between private owners, state agencies, and environmental advocates will be key in sustaining the balance between recreational enjoyment and responsible water resource management in the face of changing climatic conditions.

Year Completed

1990

Dam Length

1010

Dam Height

26

River Or Stream

TR-SALUDA RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

8

Nid Storage

90

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

26
       
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.