Bill Besson Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Bill Besson Dam, located in Edgefield, South Carolina, was completed in 1997 and serves as a crucial recreational site in the area.
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Summary
Standing at 23 feet tall and spanning 550 feet in length, this earth dam on Bell Branch offers a storage capacity of 125 acre-feet. With a maximum storage capacity of 125 acre-feet and a normal storage capacity of 75 acre-feet, the dam provides essential water resource management for the region.
Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, Bill Besson Dam is subject to regular inspections to ensure its fair condition and safety. The dam is regulated by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control, with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place to maintain its integrity. The risk assessment for this dam is rated as very high, emphasizing the importance of proper risk management measures to safeguard the surrounding community and environment.
Bill Besson Dam is a significant structure in the region, offering both recreational opportunities and water resource management. With its controlled spillway and fair condition, the dam continues to play a vital role in supporting the local ecosystem while providing a safe haven for outdoor enthusiasts. As climate change impacts water resources, the maintenance and regulation of dams like Bill Besson become increasingly important in ensuring water security for communities in South Carolina.
Year Completed |
1997 |
Dam Length |
550 |
Dam Height |
23 |
River Or Stream |
BELL BRANCH |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
9 |
Nid Storage |
125 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
23 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Lake Greenwood Tailrace Nr Chappells
|
1090cfs |
Stevens Creek Near Modoc
|
149cfs |
Saluda River At Chappells
|
1220cfs |
Little River Nr Silverstreet
|
94cfs |
Augusta Canal Nr Augusta (Upper)
|
2080cfs |
Little River Near Mt. Carmel
|
83cfs |
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.
Bill Besson Dam