James L Braswell Dam 2 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

James L Braswell Dam 2, located in Newberry, South Carolina, is a private earth dam primarily used for irrigation purposes.


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Summary

Constructed in 1994 by the USDA NRCS, this dam stands at a height of 25 feet and has a length of 250 feet, providing a maximum storage capacity of 51 acre-feet. Situated on the TR-Bush River, this dam is regulated by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations.

Despite being classified with a low hazard potential, James L Braswell Dam 2 is in poor condition according to the most recent assessment conducted in October 2017. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, with a moderate risk assessment rating of 3. While it meets state permitting and inspection requirements, the dam's condition raises concerns for its long-term functionality and ability to withstand potential climate-related challenges, highlighting the importance of ongoing maintenance and risk management measures to ensure its continued safety and effectiveness in water resource management.

With its location in a region vulnerable to changing climate patterns and increasing water demands, the James L Braswell Dam 2 serves as a crucial infrastructure for irrigation purposes. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, monitoring and supporting the maintenance and improvement of such dams are essential to enhance water security, promote sustainable water management practices, and mitigate risks associated with climate change impacts on water resources in the region.

Year Completed

1994

Dam Length

250

Dam Height

25

River Or Stream

TR-BUSH RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

4

Nid Storage

51

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

25
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.