Patrick Williams Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Mathews Mill Pond Dam Myron Bolen Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Patrick Williams Dam, located in Barnwell, South Carolina, along the SPUR BRANCH river, is a private-owned structure primarily used for recreational purposes.
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Summary
Standing at a height of 14 feet and a length of 1020 feet, this earth dam provides a storage capacity of 216 acre-feet, with a normal storage capacity of 156 acre-feet. Despite being a privately owned dam, it is regulated and inspected by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC), ensuring its safety and compliance with state regulations.
The dam has a significant hazard potential and is rated in fair condition as of the last assessment in March 2019. With inspections occurring every three years, the dam's emergency action plan (EAP) is continuously updated to meet guidelines and ensure preparedness in case of any unforeseen events. While no risk assessment or management measures are currently available, the dam remains a key feature for water resource and climate enthusiasts in the area, providing opportunities for outdoor activities and leisure in a picturesque setting.
As part of the Savannah District in the US Army Corps of Engineers, Patrick Williams Dam adds to the region's water infrastructure, contributing to flood control and water supply management. With its stone core and soil foundation, the dam serves as a vital structure for the local community, offering not only recreational benefits but also playing a crucial role in water resource management in South Carolina. Its location and design make it a noteworthy site for those interested in water resources and climate adaptation efforts in the region.
Dam Length |
1020 |
Dam Height |
14 |
River Or Stream |
SPUR BRANCH |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
30 |
Nid Storage |
216 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
14 |
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.
Patrick Williams Dam