Thelma Hill Pond Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Thelma Hill Pond Dam, located in Calhoun, South Carolina, is a privately owned structure primarily used for recreation.
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Summary
Standing at a height of 24 feet and stretching 430 feet in length, this earth dam with a buttress core type offers a storage capacity of 85 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 62 acre-feet. The dam, situated on the TR-SANDY RUN river, has a low hazard potential and has been assessed to be in fair condition as of March 2017.
Managed by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (SC DHEC), Thelma Hill Pond Dam is regulated by the state, with permitting, inspection, and enforcement functions in place. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway type and is subject to a moderate risk assessment rating. Despite its risk level, the dam has not undergone any significant modifications in recent years and has a scheduled inspection frequency of 5 years to ensure its continued safety and functionality.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Thelma Hill Pond Dam presents an intriguing case study in dam management and safety. With its unique design features and recreational purpose, this structure serves as an important asset in the local area while also highlighting the importance of regulatory oversight and risk management in maintaining the integrity of water infrastructure. As interest grows in sustainable water resource management practices, Thelma Hill Pond Dam stands as a testament to the balance between human enjoyment of natural resources and the need for responsible stewardship of water systems in the face of changing environmental conditions.
Dam Length |
430 |
Dam Height |
24 |
River Or Stream |
TR-SANDY RUN |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
7 |
Nid Storage |
85 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
24 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Congaree River At Columbia
|
4580cfs |
Gills Creek At Columbia
|
76cfs |
Saluda River Near Columbia
|
770cfs |
Smith Branch At North Main St At Columbia
|
9cfs |
Saluda River Below Lk Murray Dam Nr Columbia
|
596cfs |
Wateree R. Bl Eastover
|
2400cfs |
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.
Thelma Hill Pond Dam
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