Wright Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Abbeville, South Carolina, the Wright Pond Dam is a privately owned structure that serves the primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

This earth dam, with a height of 18 feet and a length of 415 feet, creates a reservoir with a storage capacity of 98 acre-feet. The dam overlooks the TR-Gill Creek and is regulated by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control.

Despite its low hazard potential, the Wright Pond Dam has been assessed as being in poor condition as of September 2017. The dam's last inspection revealed the need for maintenance and potential safety concerns. With a history of state regulation and periodic inspections, it is essential for the owners to address the dam's structural integrity to ensure the safety of the surrounding community and the continued enjoyment of recreational activities at the site.

Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will find the Wright Pond Dam an intriguing case study in dam management and maintenance. As a key element in the local landscape, the dam's future maintenance and risk management strategies will play a crucial role in safeguarding both the environment and the recreational opportunities it provides to visitors.

Dam Length

415

Dam Height

18

River Or Stream

TR-GILL CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

8

Nid Storage

98

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

18
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.