Palmetto Place Dam, located in Aiken, South Carolina, was completed in 1992 and serves as a crucial infrastructure for flood risk reduction along the Franklin Branch. Owned privately, the dam stands at a height of 18 feet with a length of 245 feet, providing a storage capacity of 52 acre-feet. Despite its primary purpose being flood risk reduction, the dam also offers recreational opportunities in the area.

With a low hazard potential and a poor condition assessment as of the last inspection in 2017, Palmetto Place Dam poses a potential risk that needs to be addressed. The dam is regulated by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC), with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement all in place to ensure its safety and compliance with regulations. While the dam has not undergone any modifications in recent years, it is essential for stakeholders to prioritize the maintenance and upkeep of this critical infrastructure to prevent any potential disasters.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the importance of dams like Palmetto Place in managing flood risks and ensuring water security is crucial. With its strategic location and function in the region, the dam plays a significant role in protecting the community and surrounding areas from potential flooding events. Moving forward, it is essential for all stakeholders to work together to address the dam's poor condition and implement necessary risk management measures to ensure its long-term safety and effectiveness in safeguarding the environment and local population.