Robert Small Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Robert Small Dam, located in Laurens, South Carolina, stands as a testament to the collaborative efforts between private owners and the USDA NRCS in the management of water resources.


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Summary

Completed in 1989, this earth dam on Warrior Creek serves multiple purposes, including recreation, with a primary height of 21 feet and a length of 710 feet. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment is currently marked as poor, highlighting the need for ongoing maintenance and inspection.

Managed by the SC DHEC, Robert Small Dam is regulated and permitted by the state, ensuring its compliance with safety standards. The dam's storage capacity of 140 acre-feet provides vital water resources for the surrounding area, with a normal storage level of 93 acre-feet. Although the dam's spillway and outlet gates are uncontrolled, the risk assessment categorizes it as moderate, necessitating continued monitoring and risk management measures to prevent potential hazards.

As climate change impacts water resources, the importance of maintaining and upgrading dams like Robert Small Dam becomes increasingly crucial. With its historical significance and role in water management, the dam serves as a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts to advocate for sustainable practices and resilience in the face of changing environmental conditions.

Year Completed

1989

Dam Length

710

Dam Height

21

River Or Stream

WARRIOR CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

14

Nid Storage

140

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

21
       
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.