Carroll Thompson Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Carroll Thompson Dam in Laurens, South Carolina, stands as a testament to responsible water resource management since its completion in 1979.
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Summary
This private earth dam, designed by the USDA NRCS, serves the primary purpose of irrigation along the TR-Little River. With a height of 27.5 feet and a storage capacity of 102 acre-feet, the dam facilitates agricultural activities while also providing a surface area of 5.2 acres for recreational use.
Managed by the SC DHEC and classified with a low hazard potential, Carroll Thompson Dam boasts a fair condition assessment as of December 2014. With uncontrolled spillways and outlets, the dam ensures controlled water release while mitigating risks to surrounding communities. Despite being last inspected in 2014, the dam remains in moderate risk with designated emergency contacts and a 5-year inspection frequency to maintain its operational efficiency and safety standards.
Located within the jurisdiction of the Charleston District USACE, Carroll Thompson Dam represents a harmonious blend of sustainable water resource management and climate-conscious infrastructure. As a vital component of the region's irrigation system, this dam symbolizes the importance of balancing agricultural needs with environmental conservation to ensure a stable and secure water supply for future generations.
Year Completed |
1979 |
Dam Length |
300 |
Dam Height |
27.5 |
River Or Stream |
TR-LITTLE RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
5.2 |
Nid Storage |
102 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
28 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Carroll Thompson Dam