William Jenkins Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

William Jenkins Dam, located in Barnwell, South Carolina, is a privately owned structure primarily utilized for recreation purposes.


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Summary

Standing at 11 feet tall and spanning 320 feet in length, this earth dam holds a maximum storage capacity of 51 acre-feet and a normal storage of 46 acre-feet. The dam, situated on Friddle Pond Creek, is regulated by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations.

Despite its recreational significance, William Jenkins Dam has been classified with a high hazard potential and assessed to be in poor condition as of December 2019. The dam's emergency action plan (EAP) status, risk assessment, and management measures are currently unspecified, raising some concerns about its resilience and preparedness for potential emergencies. With a moderate risk rating, the dam's safety and structural integrity are subjects of ongoing evaluation and scrutiny to mitigate any potential risks to surrounding communities and ecosystems.

As a vital component of the water resource infrastructure in the region, William Jenkins Dam plays a crucial role in managing water levels and providing recreational opportunities for locals and visitors. However, its current condition and hazard potential underscore the importance of proactive maintenance, monitoring, and risk management to ensure the safety and longevity of this essential structure in the face of evolving climate patterns and environmental challenges.

Dam Length

320

Dam Height

11

River Or Stream

FRIDDLE POND CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

12

Nid Storage

51

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

11
       
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.