Heathwood Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Heathwood Dam, located in Barnwell, South Carolina, is a privately owned Earth dam primarily used for recreation purposes.
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Summary
Standing at a height of 18 feet with a length of 390 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 70 acre-feet and covers an area of 11 acres. The dam is situated on the Jordan Branch river, under the regulatory jurisdiction of the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (SC DHEC).
Despite its significant hazard potential and poor condition assessment, Heathwood Dam continues to be a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts seeking recreational activities. However, the dam's last inspection in August 2017 revealed areas for improvement, prompting a reassessment of its emergency action plan and risk management measures. With a designated inspection frequency of 3 years, the dam's owners and regulatory agencies are working together to ensure the safety and integrity of the structure for both visitors and the surrounding environment.
As climate change continues to impact water resources and infrastructure, the maintenance and upkeep of dams like Heathwood are crucial to prevent potential hazards and safeguard downstream communities. With proper monitoring and mitigation measures in place, Heathwood Dam can continue to provide recreational opportunities while prioritizing the safety and well-being of all stakeholders involved.
Dam Length |
390 |
Dam Height |
18 |
River Or Stream |
JORDAN BRANCH |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
11 |
Nid Storage |
70 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
18 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Heathwood Dam