Gordon Kearse Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Lake Hi-Ki Pen Dam Hiers Pond Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Gordon Kearse Dam, located in Colleton, South Carolina, is a private-owned structure primarily used for fire protection, stock, and small fish pond purposes.
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Summary
This earth dam stands at a height of 18 feet and spans 350 feet in length, providing a storage capacity of 71 acre-feet. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment was reported as poor during its last inspection in November 2017.
Although the dam's risk assessment indicates a moderate level of risk, its emergency action plan status and preparedness for potential inundation events remain unknown. The dam's proximity to Long Branch stream underscores its importance in managing water resources and supporting local ecosystems. With a history dating back to an unspecified completion year, Gordon Kearse Dam serves as a crucial infrastructure for the community and contributes to the region's water supply and recreational activities.
As climate change continues to impact water resources and infrastructure resilience, ongoing monitoring and maintenance of dams like Gordon Kearse Dam are essential to ensure public safety and environmental protection. Collaborative efforts between private owners, state regulators, and other stakeholders are crucial in addressing the dam's poor condition and implementing risk management measures to mitigate potential hazards. By prioritizing dam safety and emergency preparedness, water resource enthusiasts can contribute to safeguarding critical infrastructure and promoting sustainable water management practices in the region.
Dam Length |
350 |
Dam Height |
18 |
River Or Stream |
LONG BRANCH |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
7 |
Nid Storage |
71 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
18 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Missouri River Near Landusky Mt
|
9100cfs |
Peoples Creek Near Hays Mt
|
4cfs |
Milk River Near Dodson Mt
|
68cfs |
Milk River Near Harlem Mt
|
69cfs |
Judith River Nr Mouth
|
368cfs |
Milk River At Malta Mt
|
0cfs |
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.
Gordon Kearse Dam