Sutcliffe Pond Dam, located in Orangeburg, South Carolina, is a privately owned structure with a primary purpose of recreation. This earth dam, with a height of 19 feet and a length of 630 feet, holds a maximum storage capacity of 12 acre-feet and a normal storage capacity of 8 acre-feet. The dam overlooks the Caw Caw Swamp offstream, providing a picturesque setting for water resource and climate enthusiasts to enjoy.

Despite its recreational appeal, Sutcliffe Pond Dam poses a high hazard potential and has been assessed as being in poor condition as of October 2019. The dam is regulated by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (SC DHEC), with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement processes in place. The last inspection date was in October 2019, and the dam is scheduled for regular inspections every 2 years to ensure public safety and compliance with regulatory standards.

For those interested in the intersection of water resources and climate management, Sutcliffe Pond Dam serves as a fascinating case study of a privately owned recreational dam in need of maintenance and monitoring to mitigate potential risks. As climate change continues to impact water systems, understanding the condition and regulation of dams like Sutcliffe Pond Dam is crucial for ensuring their long-term safety and sustainability in the face of evolving environmental challenges.