Tower Hill Plantation Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 15, 2025

Tower Hill Plantation Dam in Berkeley, South Carolina, stands as a testament to engineering prowess, completed in 1994 with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

This private dam, standing at 18 feet tall and stretching 1,190 feet in length, regulates the Maham Swamp's flow with a controlled spillway. With a storage capacity of 100 acre-feet, the dam provides ample opportunities for water-based activities across its 13-acre surface area.

Despite its low hazard potential, Tower Hill Plantation Dam's condition assessment raises concerns with a poor rating as of December 2017. The dam's risk assessment places it in a very high risk category, emphasizing the importance of regular inspections and maintenance. With the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control overseeing regulation, inspection, and enforcement, efforts are in place to mitigate any potential risks associated with this vital water resource infrastructure.

As climate change continues to impact water resources and infrastructure, enthusiasts and stakeholders must remain vigilant in monitoring the condition of dams like Tower Hill Plantation Dam. With the risk management measures yet to be fully detailed, it is crucial for all involved parties to collaborate on maintaining the dam's integrity and ensuring the safety of surrounding communities and natural habitats.

Year Completed

1994

Dam Length

1190

Dam Height

18

River Or Stream

MAHAM SWAMP

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

13

Nid Storage

100

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

18
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

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.