Privette Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Privette Dam, located in Darlington, South Carolina, serves as a key water resource for irrigation and recreation purposes.


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Summary

Completed in 1989, this earth dam stands at a height of 20 feet and stretches 365 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 50 acre-feet. Situated on the TR-HIGH HILL CREEK, this privately-owned dam is regulated by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity.

With a significant hazard potential and fair condition assessment as of the last inspection in December 2018, Privette Dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region. Although the dam does not feature spillways or locks, its primary purpose of irrigation highlights its importance for supporting agricultural activities in the area. Governed by state regulations and enforcement, Privette Dam remains a vital infrastructure for water management in Darlington County.

Privette Dam's location, design, and function underscore its significance in sustaining water resources in South Carolina. As a focal point for irrigation and recreational activities, this earth dam stands as a testament to human ingenuity in harnessing and managing water for the benefit of local communities. With ongoing regulatory oversight and a commitment to maintaining its integrity, Privette Dam continues to be a vital asset for water resource and climate enthusiasts in the region.

Year Completed

1989

Dam Length

365

Dam Height

20

River Or Stream

TR-HIGH HILL CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

5

Nid Storage

50

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

20
       
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.